Chicago Blackhawks forward leaves the city to represent his country at 2025 World Championships

Lukas joins Moritz Seider in being cleared for the national team.

Reichel, born in Nürnberg, Germany, is 22 years old and was the 17th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, one of Stan Bowman's last picks and projects.

Reichel, coming into his draft year, had 24 points in 42 games with the Eisbären Berlin of the DEL. But, his phenomenal play in the World Juniors for Germany is what really set him apart, having three goals and two assists in seven games and being a big piece.

Reichel would sign his ELC after another year with the Eisbären Berlin and would report to the Rockford Icehogs in the 2021-22 season, tallying 50+ points in the AHL and then playing 11 games with Chicago and only tallying an assist.

He would put up a 51-point campaign the year after in the 2022-23 season, and then would score seven goals and assist on eight goals in 15 games with the Blackhawks, making him an exciting topic.

Unfortunately, he's struggled the last two seasons, and has yet to hit his stride. This gives him an opportunity to get more playing time and be on a world stage, while playing against the best hockey has to offer.

Reichel's speed is what sets him apart and it shows on the ice when he doesn't lack confidence.

He ended the season right with a goal against the Montreal Canadiens, so hopefully he can carry that into the next season when he finds the right linemates. His contract ends next year, so Reichel has to pick it up, and maybe being selected and cleared to play for his country will be a big confidence booster.

Good luck, Lukas!