Lukas Reichel Bio
Lukas Reichel is a German professional ice hockey left winger currently playing for the Vancouver Canucks in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected 17th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft and has been active in professional hockey since 2019.
Early Life and Background
Lukas Reichel was born on May 17, 2002, in Nuremberg, Germany. Coming from a hockey family, he is the son of Czech-German hockey player Martin Reichel and the nephew of former NHL player and Olympic gold medalist Robert Reichel. This family background provided him with early exposure to ice hockey and a strong foundation in the sport.
Reichel developed his skills in the German Development League (DNL) playing for Starbulls Rosenheim and later joined the Eisbären Berlin organization. His early years in Germany’s hockey system helped prepare him for the professional level.
Path to Hockey
Reichel made his professional debut in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) with Eisbären Berlin during the 2019–20 season. His performances in the DEL and international junior competitions caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection in the first round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks.
His transition from German leagues to the NHL was marked by steady development and adaptation to the higher level of competition. The draft selection was a significant milestone that opened the door to his North American professional career.
Lukas Reichel Career
Early Career (2019–2020)
Reichel began his professional career with Eisbären Berlin in the 2019–20 season, gaining valuable experience in Germany’s top league. His play during this period demonstrated his potential as a skilled winger capable of competing at higher levels.
Following his draft by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2020, Reichel signed a three-year entry-level contract with the team in June 2021, marking the start of his NHL journey.
Chicago Blackhawks Breakthrough (2021–2025)
Reichel made his NHL debut on January 13, 2022, in a game against the Montreal Canadiens, contributing to a 3–2 victory. During the 2021–22 season, he appeared in 11 games and recorded one assist, gaining initial NHL experience.
In the 2022–23 season, Reichel spent most of his time with the Rockford IceHogs, the Blackhawks’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, where he tallied 20 goals and 31 assists in 55 games. He also played 23 games with the Blackhawks, scoring seven goals and eight assists. Despite showing promise, he faced challenges maintaining consistent production at the NHL level.
For the 2023–24 season, Reichel made the Blackhawks’ opening day roster but struggled to replicate his AHL success. He was moved from center to wing and was sent back to Rockford in February 2024 after scoring 10 points in 50 NHL games. He was recalled later that season and finished with five goals and 11 assists in 65 NHL games. He also helped Rockford in the 2024 Calder Cup playoffs.
Reichel signed a two-year, $2.4 million contract extension with the Blackhawks in May 2024. During the 2024–25 season, he appeared in 70 games, achieving career highs with eight goals and 14 assists.
Vancouver Canucks Era (2025–Present)
On October 24, 2025, Reichel was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Entry Draft. He played 14 games for Vancouver, recording one assist before being placed on waivers in December 2025.
Playing Style and Strengths
Reichel is known for his versatility as a left winger with the ability to play center. His strengths include offensive creativity, skating ability, and adaptability to different line roles. His development has been supported by strong coaching and experience gained in both European and North American leagues.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Reichel’s career include his first NHL game in 2022, his entry-level contract signing, and his trade to the Vancouver Canucks in 2025. His progression from German leagues to the NHL highlights his rising profile in professional hockey.
Lukas Reichel Career Wins
While specific individual wins and awards are not documented, Reichel’s career includes significant contributions at the professional level in both the DEL and NHL, with notable scoring performances in the AHL.
Other Wins & Performances
Reichel’s time with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL showcased his scoring ability, with 20 goals and 31 assists in the 2022–23 season, underscoring his potential as a key offensive player.
Lukas Reichel Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Lukas Reichel comes from a distinguished hockey family. His father, Martin Reichel, played professional hockey, and his uncle, Robert Reichel, was an NHL player and Olympic gold medalist. This lineage has influenced Lukas’s development and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Reichel’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 season, Reichel began with the Chicago Blackhawks before being traded to the Vancouver Canucks. His transition to a new team presented challenges, as reflected in limited scoring output and a placement on waivers. The season highlighted the ongoing adjustment period as he seeks to establish himself as a consistent NHL contributor. His contract through 2026 provides an opportunity for further development and impact in the league.