Levshunov signs 3-year, entry-level contract with Blackhawks
After being chosen as the second pick by Chicago at the 2024 NHL Draft, the 18-year-old defenseman decides to pursue a professional career.
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Artyom Levshunov signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday.
In the 2024 NHL Draft, the Blackhawks chose the 18-year-old defenseman as the No. 2 pick.
According to Kyle Davidson, the Blackhawks’ general manager, the signing of Artyom presents us with a chance to nurture his skills internally and progress towards a professional hockey career. Davidson believes that Artyom, a talented defenseman with excellent two-way abilities, possesses all the necessary attributes to become a top-tier player in the NHL. The team is thrilled to support his development in the realm of professional hockey.
Levshunov, who played for Michigan State in men’s college hockey last season, emerged as the third-youngest player in the league. Impressive performances led him to secure 10th place among defensemen, accumulating 35 points in 38 games, including nine goals and 26 assists. Among all freshmen defensemen, he ranked second. Levshunov’s exceptional skills earned him prestigious titles such as Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year. Additionally, he was honored with a spot on both the All-Big Ten First Team and the All-Freshman Team. Notably, Levshunov topped the Big Ten with an impressive plus-27 rating.
Levshunov, hailing from Zhlobin, Belarus, holds the distinction of being the most highly chosen player from Belarus in the NHL Draft.
He dedicated the previous week to joining other prospects at the Blackhawks development camp.
He explained, “Our aim is to deepen our understanding of one another and make an effort to arrange meetings. This week serves as a valuable learning experience for me, contributing to our overall growth and development.”
