Dakota Mermis
Toronto Maple Leafs
Do you remember the Dakota Mermis era in New Jersey? Do you remember what position he plays? The former Devils defenseman is having a strange season. He started the year with the Toronto Maple Leafs. They recalled him for a bit, but they ended up sending him back to the AHL to play with Sheldon Keefe’s former team, the Toronto Marlies. Mermis was actually claimed by the Utah Hockey Club, and he got into an NHL game this season.
Utah didn’t like what they saw, and they sent Mermis packing again. Toronto reclaimed Mermis, and NHL rules state that they were allowed to send him straight to the AHL. Mermis has been playing with the Marlies for most of the season, and it gives the Maple Leafs some depth.
Devils fans might remember Mermis during the 2019-20 season. He wasn’t an obvious NHL player. He only got in 10 games for the Devils, but for that to be clear five years ago and him still getting into NHL games is kind of crazy. Good for him, to be honest!
Mermis is on the other side of 30, which is weirdly a good thing for his level of defenseman. If a player is willing to sign two-way contracts and take on the grind that comes with AHL travel, teams are willing to give him a shot to make the NHL roster. Mermis will likely keep getting NHL opportunities for the next few years.