17-year-old Artyom Levshunov, projected as one of the best defensemen available in next year’s 2024 NHL Draft, has made a rather impactful decision regarding his short-term future. The potential top-five pick has committed to Michigan State University and will suit up there for the 2023-24 season, Nathaniel Bott of The Lansing State Journal reports.
The right-shot Belarusian defender suited up for the USHL’s Green Bay Gamblers last season, notching 13 goals, 29 assists and 42 points in 62 games. After earning USHL All-Rookie Team honors, he’ll stay in the American Midwest as he looks to preface a long pro career with a solid collegiate stint.
Steven Ellis of Daily Faceoff ranked Levshunov third overall behind the projected one-two punch of Macklin Celebrini and Cole Eiserman earlier this month in a pre-season ranking of 2024 draft-eligible prospects. A staunch two-way defender, he carries added value as a right-handed shooter. He’s on track to become the highest-drafted Belarusian in NHL history, surpassing Ruslan Salei (drafted ninth overall by Anaheim in 1996).
Notably, Levshunov has opted not to head to state rival University of Michigan, who’s churned out a remarkable four top-five picks in the past three seasons, including just the third freshman ever to win the Hobey Baker Award – Columbus Blue Jackets third-overall selection Adam Fantilli.
It’s a gigantic commitment for Michigan State. They now look to elevate themselves into the Big Ten conference’s upper echelon alongside Michigan and Minnesota with some new faces, including Tampa Bay Lightning first-round selection Isaac Howard via the transfer portal.
It has been awhile, but some will recall a time when Michigan State hockey was on par with the University of Michigan program. This is an excellent signing for MSU and they also have a talented goaltender ( and second round Redwing pick,) Trey Augustine headed their way. Perhaps things are looking up for State. It has been surprising to see the Western Michigan program even eclipse MSU in recent years.