Welcome to the newest edition of the revitalized “Future Hawks” prospect series. In this article, we highlight the standout prospects of the Chicago Blackhawks who are thriving in various leagues worldwide, including Canadian juniors, the American Hockey League (AHL), Europe, Russia, and beyond.
This edition focuses on several highly regarded prospects and their performances in the AHL and NCAA, featuring many of the team’s recent NHL draft selections, as well as a few who may don Blackhawks jerseys later this season.
**Artyom Levshunov**
Ranked as the Blackhawks’ top prospect by NHL.com, Levshunov opted to go pro in early July after earning Big-10 Defensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors at Michigan State last season. After injuring his right foot, the 19-year-old returned to participate with the Rockford IceHogs in late October. He quickly integrated into the team, playing on the top power-play unit alongside fellow first-round defenseman Kevin Korchinski and logging extensive ice time at even strength. Levshunov has demonstrated strong mobility and puck confidence.
The second overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft netted his first professional goal against the Grand Rapids Griffins on November 8 and currently has four points in seven games with Rockford. Although starting the season late may not have been optimal, his time in Rockford will be beneficial for his development, preparing him for a possible call-up later this season.
**Frank Nazar**
Selected 13th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Nazar accumulated four points over the weekend for Rockford and currently leads the IceHogs with 11 points (four goals, seven assists) in nine games. Nazar briefly showcased his skills with the Blackhawks at the end of last season, making a memorable debut on April 14 when he scored on his first NHL shot during a loss to the Carolina Hurricanes.
His confidence has only increased following his brief stint in the NHL. The 20-year-old is honing his ability to effectively utilize his natural speed, positioning himself in scoring areas, and leveraging his strengths both offensively and defensively.
**Sam Rinzel**
The 25th overall pick in 2022 is off to a strong start at the University of Minnesota, leading all Gophers in ice time with four goals and nine points across eight games, according to InStat Hockey. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 190 pounds, Rinzel has developed into a well-rounded defender with impressive size, reach, and physicality this season. His powerful shooting has been vital for the Gophers as he consistently delivers heavy wrist shots past goalies. As a right-handed defenseman, Rinzel’s significance to the team’s future cannot be overstated.
**Oliver Moore**
Drafted 19th overall in 2023, Moore has had a solid yet modest start with the University of Minnesota, recording five points in ten games. The Blackhawks anticipate that the 19-year-old will continue to enhance his hockey sense, puck-handling, and playmaking abilities, which will complement his exceptional skating. With the Gophers boasting a 9-1 record and a talented roster, scoring opportunities are expected to increase for Moore.
**Sascha Boisvert**
As a freshman at the University of North Dakota, Boisvert was recently honored as the NCHC Rookie of the Week following a standout three-point game against Cornell University. Many are already comparing him to Jonathan Toews, noting their similar profiles as two-way centers, Blackhawks draft picks, and both wearing number nine at UND. Before joining North Dakota, Boisvert played for the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL, where he achieved 36 goals and 68 points in 61 games during the 2023-24 season.
It’s important to remember that player development is not a straight path; some players may take longer to adapt, while others might not reach their potential. As the Blackhawks focus on rebuilding, accumulating numerous draft picks has significantly bolstered their prospect pool, making it one of the most promising and deep in the NHL.
