Chicago Blackhawks' Former No. 2 Overall Pick to Make NHL Debut Monday vs Colorado Avalanche

The Chicago Blackhawks have brought up their prized possesion, Artyom Levshunov, to the NHL roster, marking his second call-up since being selected second overall in the 2024 draft.

According to Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times, the 19-year-old defenseman is set to jump straight into the Blackhawks' lineup, and it's against a tough opponent.

-Greg Boysen

Levshunov's previous NHL stint came on February 3, just before Chicago's two-week break for the 4-Nations Face-Off.

He joined the team for a couple of practice days but was sent back to the AHL without playing a game.

Since then, he's exploded offensively in the minors, racking up nine points in 12 AHL games, a sharp rise from his earlier 13 points in 38 games.

Over the full season, his 22 points in 50 games place him ninth among AHL rookie defensemen in scoring.

Last year's draft decision to pick Levshunov over winger Ivan Demidov or center Cayden Lindstrom raised eyebrows.

But Levshunov's rapid rise has proved his worth.

With a gaping hole on right defense after trading star Seth Jones before the Trade Deadline, Chicago needs Levshunov's steady two-way play.

Since Jones' departure, replacements Louis Crevier and Connor Murphy have struggled, allowing an average of 37 shots against per game in four outings.

That's a heavy workload for new goalie Spencer Knight, who's held up well but needs help.