West News: Levshunov, Foligno, and Boeser Updates
Recent updates from the NHL highlight key developments concerning players Artyom Levshunov, Nick Foligno, and Brock Boeser. This information, reported by various sports journalists, sheds light on current player conditions and strategic decisions made by their respective teams.
Artyom Levshunov’s Development Focus
The Chicago Blackhawks have decided to healthy-scratch defenseman Artyom Levshunov for an upcoming game. According to Ben Pope from the Chicago Sun-Times, the team has enrolled Levshunov in an internal program designed to enhance crucial aspects of his game.
- Levshunov needs to improve his puck play and defensive fundamentals.
- He is also focusing on refining his shooting technique.
Instead of assigning Levshunov to the AHL, the Blackhawks prefer to utilize their skills coaches to address his developmental needs. Despite a more promising season compared to last year, Levshunov has not fully met the expectations set for him as the second overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. He currently leads Blackhawks defensemen in scoring with two goals and a total of 21 points over 52 games. However, his statistics reflect ongoing challenges:
- Even-strength Corsi For percentage: 47.4%
- On-ice save percentage: 88.3%
- Plus/minus rating: -27
Nick Foligno’s Injury Update
In other news, the Blackhawks will be without their captain Nick Foligno in an upcoming match against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Charlie Roumeliotis from WGN Radio has reported that Foligno is currently day-to-day due to an undisclosed injury.
At 38 years old, Foligno has participated in 17 games for Chicago since returning from a previous long-term injury in late December. During this stint, he has scored two goals and accumulated four points.
Brock Boeser’s Potential Return
Moving further west, Brock Boeser of the Vancouver Canucks is anticipated to return to the lineup soon. Jeff Paterson from Canucks Army indicated that Boeser may join the team on their upcoming road trip to Utah and Las Vegas. His return is contingent upon his recovery from an upper-body injury.
This injury led to a suspension for Pittsburgh Penguins’ forward Bryan Rust. Although hope remains for Boeser’s return, it is more likely that the Canucks will hold him out through the Olympic break to ensure adequate recovery time.
These updates on Levshunov, Foligno, and Boeser reflect significant moments in the ongoing NHL season, highlighting player development and injury management strategies in professional hockey.
