The New Jersey Devils fanbase is starting to grow worried with the fact their young, restricted free agent forward remains unsigned. Welcome back to another edition of NHL rumours, and this one as NHL training camps begin to start up in around two-weeks time, with many players around the league showing up already. However, the Newfoundlander, and pride of Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador, Dawson Mercer, is still without contract for the upcoming season. He’s a two-time, 20-goal scorer in the NHL already at the age of 22.
NHL Rumours from the New Jersey Devils and their RFA Forward
The Fourth Period man himself, David Pagnotta provide us with today’s rumours. They are trying to be as transparent as possible, without getting into the nitty gritty. The news isn’t great, but also no reason to panic. It seems a deal will get done in a timely fashion when it needs to get done.
The talented young Devil, Dawson Mercer, is expecting a big payday on this contract. However, the Devils would not see the value in the asking price at this time. Therefore, a bridge deal seems to be the workable model. As of now, the rumour suggests that the two sides are still far apart. Both just ultimately want to see a deal done. On one side, Mercer does want to continue to play to show he’s a 30-goal scorer at the NHL level, with having a big 2024-25 season. Moreover, the Devils management needs the depth the forward provides to the Devils forward group. His speed and talent cannot be understated and help to balance out the Devils’ line combinations.
The Devils Should Re-Sign Dawson Mercer
One aspect of contracts that is difficult to properly leverage in negotiations can be bonuses. However, many middle-career players cannot avail of them as other contracts can. In contrast, Mercer’s contract, like many, really boils down to cap space availability in any event. With an active roster size of 22 of 23 positions filled and $4.976 M left in cap space, there seems like an easy middle ground to find. That’s why landing on a bridge deal makes the most sense.
What’s He Really Worth?
Dawson Mercer‘s career numbers are impressive and he would be inline for a nice salary based on them. That is likely the stance his side is taking in contract negotiations. Furthermore, he has shown to be a playoff performer, at a young age. That is definitely an argument that can be brought to management in a negotiation process.
Mercer has had 17, 27, and 20 goals, in order, of each season he has played for the Devils since 2021-22. He’s been responsible as a centre, played in a top-six role, and been on a playoff team. Throughout his career thus far, he has averaged 16:46 a night. It really is the speed and talent, combined with the two-way game that makes Mercer a complete player for your team. A true contributor to your team’s success. Just when will a deal get done? It is tough to know with any great deal of certainty, but regardless, he is deserving of a big paycheque.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
