Michigan State hockey's Artyom Levshunov taken second overall by the Chicago Blackhawks

The 2024 NHL Draft got underway Friday evening in Las Vegas, and it didn't take long for Michigan State defenseman Artyom Levshunov to hear his name called and see a dream realized.

Levshunov was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft after one season with the Spartans. Boston University forward Macklin Celebrini went No. 1 overall to the San Jose Sharks.

Levshunov had nine goals and 26 assists in 38 games with MSU last season and had a Big Ten-leading plus-27 rating. He was the Big Ten Defenseman and Newcomer of the Year while being a First Team All-Big Ten selection.

There is a potential for Levshunov to return to MSU for his sophomore season to develop. The Blackhawks will determine whether Levshunov goes that route or signs with the team for next season.

Levshunov becomes the first player drafted in the first round from MSU since 2008 and the first top-three selection since 1986. He is also the first Belarus-born player drafted in the top five in NHL Draft history.

Contact Nathaniel Bott at nbott@lsj.com and follow him on Twitter @Nathaniel_Bott