Blackhawks sign 2024 second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov

PUBLICATION

Cooper Godin
July 6, 2024 (8:37 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The top-three picks in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft have all officially signed their entry-level contracts with their respective teams, the last being Artyom Levshunov.

On Saturday, the Chicago Blackhawks announced that they've agreed to terms on a three-year entry-level contract worth $2.925 million ($975,000 cap hit) with 2024 second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov.

"The Chicago Blackhawks today announced that the team has agreed to terms with defenseman Artyom Levshunov on a three-year, entry-level contract that runs through the 2026-27 season ($975,000 salary cap hit). The Blackhawks selected Levshunov with the second overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft." The team said.

Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson commented on the signing on Saturday afternoon, saying that inking Levshunov to his entry-level deal allows the team to develop him right away in their system and he believes the Belarusian has all the tools to become a high-end player int he National Hockey League one day.

"Signing Artyom gives us the opportunity to continue his development in house and take the next step into professional hockey,» said General Manager Kyle Davidson. «He's a strong two-way defenseman that has all the tools to be a high-end player in the NHL and we're excited to continue his growth at the pro level."

Levshunov, a native of Zhlobin, Belarus, spent the 2023-24 season in the NCAA with Michigan State University and was nearly a point-per-game player during his freshman campaign. In 38 games, the 18-year-old put up 35 points (nine goals, 26 assists), 44 penalty minutes and was a plus-27.

It's still unclear where Levshunov begins the 2024-25 season because it's all dependent on how the team feels during training camp. While he'll likely make his NHL debut at some point during the year and could eventually find his way onto the Blackhawks' roster, it seems like he'll find himself with the AHL's Rockford IceHogs to start the season.