Lukas Reichel is set to make his season debut for the Chicago Blackhawks after being a healthy scratch for the first four games. He will center the fourth line alongside veteran forwards Pat Maroon and Craig Smith during the home opener against the San Jose Sharks. Coach Luke Richardson believes this matchup will benefit Reichel's skating ability.

Additionally, Alec Martinez has been placed on injured reserve due to a groin injury. The Blackhawks have recalled Isaak Phillips from the AHL to fill the gap. Reichel, a first-round pick in 2020, has faced challenges with consistency but aims to capitalize on this opportunity.