New Jersey Devils forward Dawson Mercer is on the verge of adding yet another milestone to his growing list of accomplishments. Tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes, Mercer will play in his 400th career NHL game.

Selected 18th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Mercer has quietly become one of the Devils’ most dependable players. His versatility has been a defining trait, as he’s seamlessly shifted between center and wing while also contributing on special teams. No matter the role, Mercer has consistently adapted to the team’s needs, earning the trust of the coaching staff, especially during a season plagued by inconsistency and injuries.

While his offensive numbers may not always dominate headlines, they reflect steady and reliable production. Through 399 career games, Mercer has recorded 201 points, including 98 goals and 103 assists. His flashes of high-end skill are evident, but it’s his relentless work ethic and strong hockey IQ that have allowed him to remain effective regardless of circumstances.

On a nightly basis, he delivers the kind of effort and consistency teams rely on.

At just 24 years old, Mercer’s durability makes this milestone even more impressive. Since debuting in the 2021-22 season, he has yet to miss a game. In today’s NHL, where injuries and lineup rotations are the norm, his ability to be a constant presence has made him an invaluable part of the lineup.

That durability has also propelled Mercer into the Devils’ record books. He recently surpassed Ken Daneyko’s franchise mark of 388 consecutive games played, set from 1989 to 1994.

However, he’s certainly not done yet. He is now closing in on another historic benchmark, trailing only Travis Zajac, who appeared in 401 consecutive games between 2006 and 2011. With just a few games separating Mercer from that total, the possibility of another record is quickly becoming a reality.

If his streak remains intact, Mercer would set a new franchise standard with his 402nd consecutive game, projected to come on March 31 against the New York Rangers.