Mercer has not missed an NHL game since making his debut in October 2021.

On Wednesday night, New Jersey Devils forward Dawson Mercer will skate in his 200th career game versus the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena. 

He has not missed a game since making his NHL debut on Oct. 15, 2021. 

"I think it's impressive," Erik Haula said of Mercer's milestone. "It's luck, too, in some ways. He has been fortunate enough to not go through some injuries. Everyone gets bumps and bruises, and it shows his mindset and character about overcoming those things and keeping it going."

On Feb. 25, 2023, Mercer broke Scott Gomez's record for the most consecutive games played to start an NHL career in franchise history by appearing in his 141st straight game. Gomez was in the building for the 2003 Stanley Cup reunion. 

Per Devils PR, "Mercer’s 199 consecutive games played ranks 11th in the NHL for all active skaters (tied with Charlie Coyle of the Boston Bruins and Blake Coleman of the Calgary Flames). Additionally, it ranks 10th place all-time in franchise history, while Damon Severson’s 208 consecutive games ranks ninth in franchise history." 

"It is overall pretty impressive to not miss a game," Ruff said. "As a young player, sometimes you go through stretches, and he's had some stretches that he's struggled, but we've let him fight his way through those struggles to hit 200. It is a pretty good accomplishment."

After the team's Jan. 2 practice, Kristy Flannery of The Hockey News sat down with Mercer at his stall to discuss his milestone. 

"It goes quick. It's exciting, though," Mercer said with a smile. "I take a lot of pride in being able to play every game and staying healthy."

"When you hear 200 games, it seems so long," he continued. "I wouldn't have thought 200 would come this quick."

Mercer began his professional career focused on one game at a time. Then it got to a point where his mentality shifted, and he wanted to make sure he was always playing and doing everything in his power to ensure that he was consistently in the lineup.

The 22-year-old has come a long way from his rookie season when he was learning the ropes and rooming with teammate Mason Geertsen. The Bay Roberts native has collected 116 points (54 goals, 62 assists), celebrated one career NHL hat trick versus the Pittsburgh Penguins, and played 12 playoff games. 

When reflecting on his past two and a half seasons, he shared one thing he has enjoyed during his time as a professional hockey player.

"I love when we do the father's trip and stuff (like that) so they can experience the plane and (everything)," he said. "I'm excited when everyone from home comes to see what the life is because you never know until you're actually in the moment. When they get to experience it through me, it's cool. I like that moment." 

Mercer is expected to skate on a line with Curtis Lazar and Michael McLeod on Wednesday night. He has eight points (two goals, six assists) in nine games versus the Capitals, tied with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second-most points earned versus an opposing team. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 P.M.