Blackhawks Announce Recall Of Top Prospect With Controversial Twist

The Chicago Blackhawks are giving their former second overall pick a shot.

The team has recalled defenseman Artyom Levshunov from the AHL's Rockford IceHogs while placing Louis Crevier on injured reserve.

Levshunov was the second-overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, and was one of the best young defensemen available last summer.

He had a strong freshman season at Michigan State scoring nine goals and 35 points in 38 games.

His play earned him several awards, including Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.

Many high draft picks jump right to the NHL, but the Blackhawks took a different approach. They had Levshunov start in the AHL to help him adjust to pro hockey.

Chicago has been patient with its young players, making sure they're ready before calling them up, but maybe a little too patient.

Levshunov's first AHL season has not been anything close to spectacular. He has three goals and 13 points in 38 games, ranking 13th among rookie defensemen in scoring, and trended on social media on multiple occasions for mess-up plays with the IceHogs.

Levshunov won't play in any NHL games, according to Kyle Davidson. He will only practice with the Blackhawks while the AHL is on its All-Star break. This gives them a chance to see his progress.

Levshunov's recall comes as Crevier lands on injured reserve with a concussion from a recent hit, have a look: