Artyom Andreyevich Levshunov Bio
Artyom Andreyevich Levshunov is a Belarusian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played college hockey at Michigan State University and was selected second overall in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, becoming the highest-drafted Belarusian player in NHL history. Levshunov made his NHL debut in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 28, 2005, in Zhlobin, Belarus, Artyom Levshunov developed his hockey skills in his home country. He played for the Belarus under-18 team in the Belarusian Vysshaya Liga, where he demonstrated strong offensive abilities from the blue line. His early exposure to competitive hockey in Belarus laid the foundation for his rapid development as a defenceman.
Levshunov’s formative years included competing in Belarus’s second-tier league, where he scored 25 goals and 38 assists in 63 games during the 2021–22 season. This performance showcased his offensive talent and attracted attention from scouts abroad. His transition to North American hockey began when he was drafted by the Green Bay Gamblers in the United States Hockey League (USHL).
Path to Hockey
After being selected 111th overall in the 2022 USHL Phase II Draft by the Green Bay Gamblers, Levshunov quickly adapted to the North American style of play despite language barriers. At just 16 years old, he earned recognition as USHL Defenceman of the Week twice during the 2022–23 season, highlighting his ability to contribute offensively and defensively.
Levshunov finished the USHL season with 13 goals, ranking third among defencemen in the league. His strong rookie campaign earned him spots on the USHL First All-Rookie Team and the Third All-USHL Team. Following this success, he committed to Michigan State University to continue his development at the collegiate level.
Artyom Levshunov Career
Early Career (2022–2024)
Levshunov debuted in the USHL with the Green Bay Gamblers during the 2022–23 season. His offensive production and defensive reliability quickly made him one of the league’s top young defencemen. He earned multiple weekly honors and finished the season with notable statistics for a rookie defenceman.
In the summer of 2023, Levshunov began his collegiate career at Michigan State University. He made an immediate impact, scoring his first collegiate goal and assist early in the season. He concluded the 2023–24 NCAA season with nine goals and 26 assists in 38 games, ranking ninth overall in points among NCAA defencemen.
Michigan State Spartans Breakthrough (2023–2024)
During his freshman year at Michigan State, Levshunov established himself as a key player on the Spartans’ blue line. His offensive contributions and defensive acumen earned him the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors. His performance solidified his status as a top NHL prospect.
Chicago Blackhawks Era (2024–Present)
Levshunov was selected second overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, marking a historic moment as the highest-drafted Belarusian player. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the team in July 2024. Shortly after, he suffered a fractured foot during a summer tournament but continued to play until the injury was diagnosed at training camp.
Due to the injury, Levshunov missed the preseason and season opener but was activated off injured reserve in October 2024 and assigned to the Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs. He made his NHL debut on March 10, 2025, against the Colorado Avalanche, logging significant ice time in his first game.
Playing Style and Strengths
Levshunov is known for his strong offensive instincts from the defensive position, combining scoring ability with solid defensive play. His skating, vision, and puck-handling skills allow him to contribute effectively on both ends of the ice. His adaptability and hockey sense make him a valuable asset in transition and power-play situations.
Notable Events and Milestones
Levshunov’s selection as the second overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft was a landmark achievement for Belarusian hockey. His collegiate awards and rapid progression to the NHL highlight his rising profile in professional hockey. His NHL debut in 2025 marked the beginning of his career at the highest level of the sport.
Artyom Levshunov Career Wins
While still early in his professional career, Levshunov has accumulated significant achievements at the amateur and collegiate levels. His awards and recognitions reflect his impact as a top defenceman in junior and college hockey.
USHL Highlights
Levshunov’s 13 goals in the 2022–23 USHL season placed him third among defencemen in scoring. His performance earned him multiple weekly honors and selections to the USHL First All-Rookie Team and Third All-USHL Team, underscoring his status as one of the league’s premier young talents.
NCAA Highlights
At Michigan State, Levshunov’s 35 points in 38 games ranked him ninth among NCAA defencemen. His accolades as Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year demonstrate his dominance at the collegiate level and readiness for professional play.
Artyom Levshunov Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Levshunov’s family background are not publicly available. His early development in Belarusian hockey programs was instrumental in shaping his career.
Personal Life
Information regarding Levshunov’s personal life, including marital status and family, has not been publicly disclosed.
2025 Season Performance
Levshunov’s 2025 season marks his rookie year in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks. After recovering from a foot injury that delayed his start, he made his NHL debut in March 2025. His initial performances have shown promise as he adjusts to the pace and physicality of the NHL.
Assigned initially to the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL, Levshunov gained valuable professional experience before his call-up. His development is closely watched by the Blackhawks organization, which views him as a key part of their defensive future. The 2025 season will be critical for his growth and establishing himself as a regular NHL player.