Artyom Levshunov Elevates Play for Chicago Blackhawks
The 21-year-old defenseman is seeing increased ice time and physical production in his second NHL season.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Hockey
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Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Artyom Levshunov is recording improved metrics during the 2026-27 NHL season. The 21-year-old has taken on a larger role on the blue line following an injury to teammate Bowen Byram.
Why it matters
Levshunov has become a central figure for the Blackhawks by refining his defensive positioning and decision-making. His ability to rely on instincts within the team system suggests he will be a long-term anchor for the club's defensive rotation.
Levshunov has increased his defensive intensity, averaging 1.92 hits per game this season compared to 1.44 hits per game previously. He now leads all Blackhawks defensemen in five-on-five ice time per game.
The players
Artyom Levshunov
He is a defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks who is currently playing his second season in the NHL.
Bowen Byram
He is a defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks whose recent injury prompted an increase in ice time for Levshunov.
Moritz Seider
He is a professional hockey player for the Detroit Red Wings who gained early league experience in previous seasons.
The details
Levshunov is prioritizing smart defensive positioning and limiting his mistakes to one or two per game. He has noted that he plays more effectively when relying on his instincts rather than over-calculating his movements on the ice.
Timeline
2021-22 and 2022-23 saw Moritz Seider accumulate early NHL experience.
2025-26 marked the rookie NHL season for Artyom Levshunov.
October 28, 2026 was the 21st birthday of Artyom Levshunov.
2026-27 is the current NHL season.
Season Trajectory
Levshunov is following a developmental path comparable to the early career of Moritz Seider in Detroit. His increased responsibility on the Blackhawks blue line positions him to become a foundational pillar for the franchise as the season progresses.
Levshunov's elevated role and increased hits per game make him a more valuable asset for fantasy hockey rosters that track physical defensive stats. His expanded five-on-five ice time indicates he will continue to be a primary defensive option for the team while Byram remains sidelined.
The takeaway
Players often see a significant jump in production once they grow comfortable with their team's defensive systems and rely more on natural instincts. Young athletes looking to improve should focus on limiting high-stakes errors while gradually increasing their physical presence.
Further reading
For more on the team, visit the Chicago Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
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