Blackhawks Sign No. 2 Pick Artyom Levshunov

The Chicago Blackhawks signed their 2024 second overall pick, Artyom Levshunov, to a three-year, entry-level contract on Saturday. The deal includes a $975,000 salary-cap hit and up to $3.25 million in performance bonuses. Levshunov, who will likely begin the 2024-25 season with the AHL's Rockford IceHogs, recorded nine goals and 35 points in 38 games as a freshman at Michigan State. The 18-year-old defenseman, the highest-drafted Belarusian in NHL history, earned multiple accolades during his college season, including Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors. Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson expressed excitement over Levshunov's potential, highlighting his two-way capabilities and the opportunity to develop him within the organization.