2. Dawson Mercer
After Dawson Mercer's 42 and 56-point efforts in his first two seasons, his 20-goal, 13-assist downturn sticks out. His career-low output is concerning.
Recently, Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald gave the 22-year-old a new contract worth $3 million this coming season, $4.75 million the following year, and $4.25 million in the year after that. Mercer had 20 goals and 13 assists last season, playing in all 82 games. The restricted free agent had a career-high four power-play goals and a time-on-ice average of 17:13.
Mercer was New Jersey's second choice, 18th overall, in the 2020 NHL Draft. He represented Canada at the International Ice Hockey Federation's 2020 and 2021 World Junior Championships and the 2022 and 2024 Men's World Championships.
He set a Devils franchise record Feb. 25, 2023, when he passed Scott Gomez for consecutive games played (141) to start an NHL career. Mercer has extended the streak to 246 games. He has not missed a game since his debut Oct. 15, 2021.
Adding him to a list of players who likely will have a record breaking year is truly a no brainer.