Blackhawks set to make decision on 2024 NHL Draft second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov's future in coming weeks

By Evan Bell

Modified Jul 05, 2024 19:12 GMT

The Chicago Blackhawks are still mulling over No. 2 overall pick Artyom Levshunov's future with the team. On one hand, the team could have him return to Michigan State for a second year. On the other, they could decide that they want him to turn pro right away to develop under their program.

Both options offer their own set of advantages and disadvantages, however, from the sounds of things, the team has yet to make a decision either way. Given that Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson has praised Levshunov for his easygoing demeanor and "go with the flow" personality, he seems indifferent.

As he revealed after the draft, he plans to talk with his team, his family, and the Blackhawks to figure out what's next. According to NHL insider Charlie Roumeliotis, the team is still mulling over their options, while hoping to have things figured out in the coming weeks.

In a post on social media, the NBC Sports Chicago insider relayed an update to fans after speaking with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson:

"Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson said they're still talking about where Artyom Levshunov will play next season. They're hoping to have an answer in the next week or two."

Looking at the pros and cons of Artyom Levshunov going pro with the Chicago Blackhawks compared to returning to college for another year

The Chicago Blackhawks are currently figuring out whether they want Artyom Levshunov to turn pro and develop under their coaches, or return to play under Michigan State's Adam Nightingale next season. Both options have pros and cons, with both options likely to play a significant role in his development as a player.

In the event the team wants him to turn pro, the expectation is that he would develop in the AHL on the Rockford IceHogs. The move would, as previously mentioned, allow him to develop under professional coaches, however, he would also be competing for playing time.

On one hand, as Levshunov's collegiate coach explained while speaking with media members around the time of the draft, competing with the best players in the world is a tough environment for him to develop:

“(Levshunov’s) got the physical attributes, and I’m not saying he couldn’t play, it’s just you’re hopping into the best league in the world. And in that position, you really got to be as close to polished as you can.”

Given that, one would think that the team would prefer to see him return to college for one more year. When also taking into account the fact that he joined Michigan State late last summer, it's likely that another year at the NCAA level would see him take the next step in his development.

As Chicago's director of amateur scouting Mike Doneghey explained to media members at the draft, the biggest factor in his development is likely adding muscle. When looking at Michigan State's esteemed strength and conditioning program, it could be just what Levshunov needs.

Despite that, it sounds as though Chicago is still on the fence, with fans eagerly awaiting the decision in the weeks to come.