Blackhawks Trade Lukas Reichel to Canucks for Draft Pick

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Blackhawks traded forward Lukas Reichel to the Vancouver Canucks on Friday, acquiring a fourth-round draft pick in the 2027 NHL Draft in return. Reichel, 23, has registered four points, including two goals and two assists, in five games this season.

Reichel stood out in an 8-3 victory against the St. Louis Blues on October 15, where he scored two goals and added an assist. Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin expressed his enthusiasm for Reichel’s skillset and competitive nature, noting, “What intrigues us is the speed coming through the neutral zone and his skill level there.”

Selected by Chicago with the 17th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, Reichel has accumulated 58 points (22 goals, 36 assists) over 174 NHL games with the Blackhawks. His transition to the Canucks follows the team’s decision to place forward Teddy Blueger on injured reserve, sidelining him for approximately two weeks.

Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill praised Reichel, saying, “I really enjoyed my time with him. He handled tough conversations like a complete pro, so I wish him the best.” Reichel was also named to Germany’s preliminary roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, highlighting his international recognition.

In addition to Blueger, forward Filip Chytil is in the concussion protocol but is showing encouraging progress. Both forwards were injured during a recent victory over the Washington Capitals on October 19.