Insider reports Oilers interest in young Blackhawks forward on trade block
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The Chicago Blackhawks are looking to trade forward Lukas Reichel before training camp, and the Edmonton Oilers may be among the interested teams.
Reichel was frequently involved in trade rumours throughout the offseason. At one point, the forward actually believed he had been traded to the Oilers - and it still could really happen.
Edmonton Oilers linked to deal for Chicago Blackhawks first round pick Lukas Reichel
According to a recent report from Scott Powers of the Athletic, the Blackhawks have explicitly told other NHL teams that Reichel is available for trade before the season.
Insider Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal believed the Oilers were interested in Reichel earlier, and will be again now.
Eichel was drafted 17th overall by the Blackhawks in 2020 by then-GM Stan Bowman. Now 23 years old, Reichel has some NHL experience but hasn't carved out a role in Chicago, and Bowman may still believe in his talent.
Now 23 years old, Reichel has played 169 career games with the Hawks, but has only scored 20 goals and 54 points. He register only 22 points in 70 games last year with a brutal -16 rating, and is under contract for the next two seasons at $1.2M.
Reichel is a risky player for any team to invest in, but the Oilers and Bowman may see a change of scenery to unlock his full potential. He could also be mentored by his countryman Leon Draisaitl.
Perhaps the Oilers will make a move to acquire Reichel and add even more young talent to their lineup in the coming weeks before opening night.
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