Artyom Levshunov Bio
Artyom Andreyevich Levshunov is a Belarusian professional ice hockey player who is a defenceman for the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League (NHL). He played college ice hockey for Michigan State University. He was selected second overall by the Blackhawks in the 2024 NHL entry draft, the highest-drafted Belarusian player in NHL history, and made his NHL debut in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Artyom Levshunov was born on October 28, 2005, in Zhlobin, Belarus. Growing up in a country with a rich hockey tradition, he was exposed to the sport at a young age. His early experiences in local hockey leagues helped shape his skills and passion for the game. Although specific details about his family background are not publicly available, Levshunov’s commitment to hockey has been evident from his youth.
Path to Hockey
Levshunov began his hockey career in Belarus, where he played for the under-18 team in the second-tier Belarusian Vysshaya Liga. Following the 2021–22 season, he was selected 111th overall by the Green Bay Gamblers in the eighth round of the 2022 United States Hockey League (USHL) Phase II Draft. Despite being only 16 years old and speaking very little English, he quickly made an impact in the USHL, earning his first Defenceman of the Week award shortly after debuting. His performance continued to improve, culminating in a strong season where he ranked third among USHL defencemen in goals.
Artyom Levshunov Career
Early Career (2022–2024)
After joining the Green Bay Gamblers, Levshunov’s talent became increasingly apparent. He finished the 2022–23 season with 13 goals and was named to the USHL First All-Rookie Team and the Third All-USHL Team. In the summer of 2023, he committed to play college ice hockey for Michigan State University. During his freshman year, he made an immediate impact, finishing with nine goals and 26 assists in 38 games. His performance earned him accolades such as the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Breakthrough (2024–Present)
Levshunov’s breakthrough came when he was drafted second overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2024 NHL entry draft, making him the highest-drafted player from Belarus. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Blackhawks shortly after the draft. However, his early career faced a setback when he fractured his foot during a summer tournament. Despite this injury, he was able to recover and was activated off injured reserve in October 2024. Levshunov made his NHL debut on March 10, 2025, against the Colorado Avalanche, showcasing his potential on the ice.
Notable Works and Milestones
Artyom Levshunov’s signature work includes his remarkable journey from Belarus to the NHL, marked by his historic draft position. His accolades in college hockey and his rapid ascent in professional ranks highlight his potential as a key player for the Chicago Blackhawks.
Artyom Levshunov Award Nominations
Throughout his early career, Artyom Levshunov has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his time in college hockey, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance.
Artyom Levshunov Awards Won
Levshunov has achieved significant recognition in his young career, including awards for his performance in the USHL and NCAA, showcasing his talent and hard work on the ice.
Artyom Levshunov Family
Information about Artyom Levshunov’s family is not publicly available, and he has chosen to keep his personal life private.
Personal Life
As a young athlete, Artyom Levshunov is focused on his hockey career. Details about his personal life, including relationships or children, are not publicly disclosed.
