Devils select Dawson Mercer 18th overall

The New Jersey Devils chose Dawson Mercer with the 18th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Dawson Mercer

Position: Center
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 179 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
Nationality: Canada

(Stats courtesy: EliteProspects.com)

Mercer was one of the QMJHL's best players this past season and managed to crack Canada's roster for the World Junior Championship. The 18-year-old is a smart player who can get the job done, even if he may not be as flashy as others in his draft class. The solid two-way center also performs well on both ends of the ice, which is always a welcome trait.

What they're saying

"Mercer brings a lot of elements to the table. He’s got a lot of skill. It’s not elite skill, but he can make defenders look silly," wrote The Athletic's Corey Pronman. "He’s a very smart player who moves the puck well inside the zone and has offensive creativity. Mercer can also score from a distance if given space. He’s a competitive two-way center who can be effective in a lot of situations."

"His passion and energy are infectious," wrote Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino. "Possesses excellent hands and shooting ability. Built for the small-space game."

Highlights