Artyom Levshunov

Chosen with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, Chicago naturally has big hopes for Levshunov, but will he jump immediately into the top league? At the very least, Levshunov has decided to give it a shot after signing an entry-level contract with Chicago over the summer, ending his tenure with Michigan State University following a freshman campaign in which he recorded nine goals, 35 points and 44 PIM in 38 contests. Even at the age of 18, Levshunov wouldn't look out of place in the NHL given his size and strength. His skill level at both ends of the ice also provides plenty of cause for excitement. Still, Chicago might opt to be careful with his development by having him start in the AHL, especially because the Blackhawks already have a reasonably functional defensive corps going into the campaign. It would not be surprising, though, to see him make his NHL debut this season, even if he doesn't make the squad out of training camp. In the long run, he's got the potential to be a high-end No. 1 defenseman who features heavily on the power play.