Why Blackhawks felt Artyom Levshunov was right choice at No. 2 overall originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Presented by Nationwide Insurance Agent Jeff Vukovich
LAS VEGAS — After an intense internal debate, the Chicago Blackhawks officially made their decision with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft by selecting two-way defenseman Artyom Levshunov.
The pick all along was believed to come down to Levshunov and offensive playmaking forward Ivan Demidov, and the 18-year-old Belarusian defenseman edged out the latter.
It should be noted though it was reported by TSN’s Pierre LeBrun late Friday night that the Blackhawks made Columbus an offer for the No. 4 overall pick but it was turned down. Presumably, the Blackhawks would have taken Demidov, which would have landed them both.
Nevertheless, Levshunov was the Blackhawks’ choice at No. 2 and it was a decision that was made weeks ago.
“I just think the total package,” Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson said of why Levshunov was the selection. “Offensively, he can drive offense, he can skate, he’s super mobile, he’s got good size, he’s aggressive, he’s a physical defender and we just think there’s more upside to come.
“The package as well as the potential growth left to come, it was just so intriguing and something we really felt that would just make us a much better organization.”
The Blackhawks were enamored by Levshunov this season and had scouted him regularly at Michigan State. Their love for him only grew over time, and it’s not hard to see why.
Levshunov put up terrific numbers as a freshman with 35 points (nine goals, 26 assists) in 38 games. The year prior, he had 42 points (13 goals, 29 assists) in 62 games for the USHL’s Green Bay Gamblers.
“You see the way he skates and the size, for a big guy to get around the ice that well, and he’s very puck friendly and he’s ultra competitive,” Blackhawks director of amateur scouting Mike Doneghey said. “He just continued to take the steps.
“Everyone thought he was going to go back to Green Bay, and then he ends up going to Michigan State and he was able to elevate his game against players that are 3, 4 and 5 years older than him and not miss a beat from the USHL.
“And then once you meet him off the ice, he’s an engaging personality, his character, the way he treats people, it’s just what we’re about.”
Physically, Levshunov looks NHL ready; he’s listed at 6-foot-1.75 inches and 205 pounds. But the Blackhawks feel there’s even more room to grow.
“I just think he’s…