Chicago Blackhawks scratch former 2nd overall pick ahead of season opener against the Montreal Canadiens

NHL hockey is back in Chicago, with the Blackhawks set to take part in their 2025-26 home opener.

Another Original Six franchise will be in town for that game: the Montreal Canadiens.

That team reached another level in their rebuild, and they will make the other team pay on the ice for every mistake they make.

We saw it in Thursday's game against the Detroit Red Wings, when the Habs scored four goals on 10 shots.

The Blackhawks can't afford to make mistakes if they want to get their first win of the season after straight losses against the Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins.

Ahead of the game, head coach Jeff Blashill made a decision about his defensive unit: one of the organization's top prospects will be a healthy scratch.

The Blackhawks held a morning skate today ahead of their matchup against the Montreal Canadiens, and despite skating on the second pair, Artyom Levshunov did some extra time on the ice, suggesting he won't take part in the game.

Per Mark Lazerus:

Here's the full lineup seen at practice, as reported by Charlie Roumeliotis:

So far, in two games this season, Levshunov has an assist and a +1 plus/minus.

An official confirmation about his status should come soon. Meanwhile, fans are invited to take part in pre-game activities starting at 3 p.m. at the United Center to celebrate the first game of the Centennial season.