Former Green Bay Gamblers defenseman Levshunov drafted No. 2 by Chicago Blackhawks

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (WFRV) – The United States Hockey League (USHL) has a vast array of players who will be drafted throughout the 2024 NHL Draft, but none as high as one former Green Bay Gamblers defenseman.

18-year-old Artyom Levshunov was drafted No. 2 overall by the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night, making him the highest-drafted Belarusian player in league history.

Levshunov played one year for the Gamblers, in 2022-23, finishing sixth on the team with 42 points en route to a loss in the quarterfinals of the USHL playoffs.

Levshunov was named to the All-USHL Third Team as well as All-Rookie First Team in his sole season with the Gamblers, also winning two USHL Defenceman of the Week awards. His 13 goals in 2022-23 were the third-highest amongst USHL defensemen.

He committed to playing for the Michigan State Spartans, where he was named the 2023-24 Big Ten Freshman and Defensive Player of the Year.

The Gamblers posted on Facebook , “We look forward to watching you on the big screen, as always it’s great to see our alumni rise!”

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