Blackhawks Fall to Avalanche as Rookie Artyom Levshunov Impresses in NHL Debut
Chicago's 19-year-old defenseman showcased skill and poise in a challenging first game, though the team suffered a 3-0 shutout loss.
- Artyom Levshunov, the Blackhawks' No. 2 overall draft pick, logged nearly 21 minutes of ice time in his NHL debut against the Avalanche.
- The rookie defenseman displayed confidence and skill, contributing six shot attempts, three of which were on goal, and a standout 150-foot breakout pass.
- Chicago's power play, ranked seventh in the NHL, went 0-for-4 in the game, contributing to their first shutout loss of the season.
- Veteran Alec Martinez, Levshunov's defensive partner, left the game early due to injury and is considered day-to-day, leaving Chicago with five defensemen for most of the game.
- Nathan MacKinnon reached 1,001 career points, helping the Avalanche secure a 3-0 victory, while goalie Scott Wedgewood made crucial saves to deny Chicago's scoring attempts.