Artyom Levshunov has a lot to prove with the Blackhawks

Let's be honest. Artyom Levshunov needs a ton of work and has a lot to prove this season. Being drafted second overall in a year with Ivan Demidov, he will have high expectations for the rest of his career. We've seen glimpses of what he can do at the NHL level, but his consistency is a bit lacking, especially on defense. His development next season will be important, as Sam Rinzel is also expected to be in the lineup full-time.

Levshunov needs a lot of work

Levshunov's main issue on defense is his awareness. Too often, he looked lost out there and gave up a high-danger chance for no reason. I'm okay with him making mistakes with his positioning and stick placement, which he has made numerous times, but his lack of awareness is concerning. He is still young, turning 21 years old in October. So he has time.

Do I still think Levshunov is the pick? It's a bit soon to decide. The Blackhawks are high on him, and it really isn't a "red-alert" level of concern unless he shows no improvement this season. Generally, I don't think defensemen of his caliber should be judged until they get to around 24-25 years of age. However, he was drafted to man the right side as a top-pairing defenseman for the next decade, matching with Connor Bedard, Alex Vlasic, and Frank Nazar in terms of development as "impact" players.

Don't get me wrong, Levshunov has a ton of upside offensively. His ability to move the puck and his skating ability are amazing. He can quarterback the first unit on the power play and, on his best nights, he looks like a potential top-pairing defenseman on both sides of the puck. However, the consistency, as is always the issue for young players, will likely still be a concern.

Really, the step forward for Levshunov is in his own zone: How reliable can he be on the backcheck? Can he take away passing lanes instinctively? Can he box out the opposition in front of the crease without screening Spencer Knight? Where is his decision-making at under pressure when the opposition is flying on the forecheck? Can he be focused the entire game, especially after making a mistake?

These are a few things to look out for as the season begins.

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