🏒 Elvis Merzlikins Goalie

Elvis Merzlikins posted a 26-21-5 record across 53 games for Columbus in 2024-25, which represents solid availability for a starting goaltender (most NHL starters play 50-60 games annually).

Since his excellent 2019-20 rookie campaign (.923 SV%), his performance has consistently trailed league averages, suggesting this level may represent his current ceiling rather than a temporary struggle. His .892 save percentage falls eight points below the league average of .900, placing him in the bottom tier of NHL goaltenders. While not catastrophically bad, this gap indicates he was consistently allowing more goals than expected compared to his peers. Combined with a 3.18 GAA, these numbers suggest he kept games competitive without providing the above-average goaltending that separates teams.

The single shutout in 53 starts is disappointing, as most starters record 2-4 per season. His 1,389 saves show he handled significant volume (averaging 29.4 shots per game), which can negatively impact save percentage as goalies face fatigue and higher-danger scoring chances in high-shot games. His 26-21-5 record indicates he won more than he lost, which has organizational value even if the underlying performance was below NHL standards.

At $5.4 million through 2026-27, he's earning mid-tier starter money while delivering below-average statistical performance. This creates some value concerns, though his availability and ability to handle a full starter's workload can provide stability for Columbus.