They say the first step to solve a problem is to acknowledge the issue on itself, and then act on it. Under Jeff Blashill, the Chicago Blackhawks might be doing just that—possibly moving on from a teammate of Connor Bedard, who hasn’t quite panned out in the NHL.
Changes are brewing in Chicago. For better or worse—that remains to be seen—new winds are blowing through Chi-City. Bedard and company are certainly hoping clear skies lie ahead, but that’s not something Blashill and his staff can promise just yet.
It’s been a quiet offseason so far in the Windy City, but perhaps not for long. As recently hinted, the Blackhawks might be working on a trade, seemingly giving up on one of Bedard’s teammates.
According to reports around the league, Lukas Reichel’s time in Chicago could have its days numbered, as the Blackhawks steer in a different direction. At the very least, they are entertaining the possibility of a new beginning for the young forward.
“Teams have been calling about Reichel and the Blackhawks have been listening,” as reported by The Fourth Period. “Chicago is looking to package assets for immediate upgrades.”
Unfulfilled potential
A former first round selection in the 2020 NHL entry Draft, Reichel has had trouble adapting to the league. Chicago’s rough years since the turn of the decade weren’t too helpful, either.
So far, Reichel has played in 169 games registering only 20 goals and 34 assists (54 points). This past season, the 23-year-old winger posted career-highs in goals (8), assists (14), and points (22), yet those are still not the numbers the Hawks expect from the former 17th overall pick.
One exit is enough
While the Blackhawks might have made up their minds about Reichel, they have no intention to destroy the young core led by Bedard. On that note, reaching an agreement with RFA Arvid Soderblom is a must. However, time’s at a premium and the clock is ticking.
As announced by the NHL, the salary arbitration hearing for the 25-year-old goaltender will take place on July 28. As it stands, Chicago has less than five days to find some common ground with the Swedish netminder, or a third-party will intervene.
SURVEY Will the Blackhawks improve on their 61-point total from last season?
Will the Blackhawks improve on their 61-point total from last season?
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Spencer Knight will be the team’s starter, but the Hawks will still need a backup to fill in every now and then—and Soderblom can do that just as well as any. The ball is in Chicago’s court, but what will Kyle Davidson and company do with that responsibility?