The Chicago Blackhawks' second overall pick from 2024, Artyom Levshunov, was injured by a shot to the foot and won't be attending the Tom Kurvers Showcase this week. The injury is considered to be minor, but it is unfortunate for the 18-year-old and the Blackhawks that he isn't able to put his skills on display. Elliotte Friedman reported that Levshunov is expected to be in a walking boot and will be out for a few weeks. This injury shouldn't keep him out for all of training camp, but he may miss some time. The Blackhawks should still be able to get the highly touted defenseman in some preseason games, though the regular season kicks off for Chicago on October 8 in Utah. No. 2 overall draft pick Artyom Levshunov was circumspect about his 2024-25 plans last week, saying he needed to talk with his "advisors." He signed a pro contract on Saturday. Levshunov isn't expected to make the Blackhawks out of training camp this season as there is a lot of competition, but he is going to be a big part of the organization moving forward. The 6'2 defenseman is signed by the Blackhawks to an entry-level deal, so he can't go back and play another season in the NCAA for Michigan State University. He is coming off a very impressive season where he scored nine goals and 35 points in 38 games, but offense isn't the only aspect of his game. He can do it all and the explosive talent should be expected to be a full-time member of the Blackhawks by the end of 2025-26. There shouldn't be any concerns about Levshunov's health as defensemen block shots and are injured all the time. There is also no use in rushing him back either as quickness is a key part in his game. Expect an update on his status next week. RECENT BLACKHAWKS NEWS Chicago Blackhawks: One Career Milestone For Each Player in 2024-25 [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/chicago-blackhawks-one-career-milestone-for-each-player-in-2024-25] Blackhawks' Seth Jones: Overpaid But Integral [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/blackhawks-seth-jones-overpaid-but-integral] Blackhawks Have Two Breakout Candidates for 2024-25 — Kevin Korchinski and Lukas Reichel [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/blackhawks-have-2-breakout-candidates-for-2024-25] Ex-Blackhawk Tyler Johnson Gets Shot With Boston Bruins [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/ex-blackhawk-tyler-johnson-gets-shot-with-playoff-contender]
