Blackhawks Daily: Levshunov injury, practice starts and excitement

Yesterday, for the first time in a long time, the Chicago Blackhawks hit the ice at Fifth Third Arena for practice, just a few blocks from the United Center. Chicago kicked off its prospect camp ahead of the Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase this weekend.

Sadly, one big piece of news came out yesterday. Artyom Levshunov will miss the prospect showcase as he took a shot off his foot and is injured. Rockford IceHogs head coach Anders Sorensen, who is serving as coach at the showcase, didn’t indicate Levshunov will be out long term while speaking at media availability after practice yesterday.

“I’m not sure of the exact timeline,” said Sorensen, “but it doesn’t seem to be too bad.”

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet said Levshunov is expected to be in a walking boot and out for a few weeks.

With Levshunov missing the showcase, Hawks fans won’t get to see the young defensemen just yet. Preseason hockey doesn’t start for the Hawks until Sept. 25, so there is time to get a chance he will be back ahead of the season.

The last few seasons have been unfortunately about tanking in Chicago. This season could be different. Kyle Davidson has given Luke Richardson and company a better roster to take to the ice night in and night out — that might be one of the biggest reasons for excitement of all.

Chicago Blackhawks

Chatter: The Chicago Blackhawks start practice ahead of Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase.

Scouting the Chicago Blackhawks Central Division opponents, the Utah Hockey Club.

Reasons for excitement for the Chicago Blackhawks entering the 2024-25 NHL Season.

National Hockey Now

New Jersey Hockey Now: One question for each New Jersey Devils‘ forward with the new season.

Washington Hockey Now: Projecting the 2024-25 Washington Capitals Defensive Pairs.

Vegas Hockey Now: Marchessault Tried to Broker Late Deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.