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Chicago puts No. 2 pick in minors after foot injury

Chicago puts No. 2 pick in minors after foot injury

CHICAGO — The

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    Levshunov, a Belarus native, had nine goals and 26 assists in his only season at Michigan State. He was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year.

    He signed an entry-level contract with Chicago in July. The three-year deal carries a $975,000 cap hit.

    While Levshunov was out, he got some experience by being around the NHL team.

    “We’ve been including him in everything. He’s here at the rink and talking to everybody all day,” coach Luke Richardson said. “He’s a talker. He loves to spend time talking to people, which is great. It’s going to help probably his language barrier and just comfort zone. Being in meetings and learning the system, it’ll help him integrate into the organization a lot quicker.”

    Richardson also said Alec Martinez is progressing. The 37-year-old defenseman has a right groin injury.

    “We’re just not sure (of) the exact timeline,” Richardson said before Chicago’s 6-3 loss to Vancouver. “I’m certain he’ll be coming with us on the road trip. I don’t know if he’ll play before that.”