Trade underway in Chicago and three teams have been named: Lukas Reichel is done with the Blackhawks

The German forward Lukas Reichel has been included in many trade rumors in the offseason, and in the past few days, a trade has been confirmed to be taking place this week, scratching all rumors, as a trade is now true.

In recent years, the Blackhawks have piled up great offensive prospects, and Reichel's place in the team's long-term plans has been questioned.

Now, according to David Pagnotta, three teams remain in the running.

Reichel's talent is undeniable.

However, most analysts agree that a fresh start would be extremely beneficial for the player, something the current Edmonton Oilers general manager, Stan Bowman, who drafted Reichel when he was in Chicago, is fully aware of.

Pagnotta stated that the Oilers are in the race, as are the Vancouver Canucks and the San Jose Sharks.

In Edmonton, Reichel would be under more pressure but would also get a chance to compete with top players.

With the Sharks, Reichel would join a team in the same kind of situation the Hawks are currently in.

In Vancouver, he would bring some depth, especially after the massive changes that went down in the Canucks organization in the past year.

The Blackhawks will likely hear all offers and accept the best one. With Nazar signed long-term, Connor Bedard on his way to a breakout season, and Anton Frondell coming to Chicago next season, they can afford to part ways with Reichel.

The forward has a year left on his $1,200,000 AAV contract, which could be enticing for teams that don't have much cap space and are looking for rental options ahead of the playoffs. Teams that don't compete for a playoff spot and look to their future could also be interested in Reichel as a long-term project.

Stay tuned for updates on Reichel's trade process.