N.L.'s Riley Mercer signs NHL contract with Minnesota Wild

Riley Mercer of Bay Roberts has signed an entry-level contract with the NHL's Minnesota Wild, adding to Newfoundland and Labrador's presence in the big leagues — and joining his brother, Dawson.

Mercer, 21, played last season in the QMJHL with the Drummondville Voltigeurs.

He was one of the league's best, ranking second in wins and leading the league in save percentage and shutouts on the way to a league championship. He's also the franchise leader in games and minutes played, wins, shutouts and shootout wins.

The undrafted goalie's contract begins next season.

"Obviously it's a little bit surreal," Bo Bennett, Mercer's uncle, told CBC News Friday night. He says the family is overjoyed.

"Riley has found his way on his own, and through hard work and determination. It wasn't all roses and sunshine, and he's had his grinds, no doubt about that. And we're super proud of him. He deserves it."

Bennett said he sees Mercer as a good fit for the Wild, and is ready to bring his determination and work ethic to the team. 

The family even got to be with Mercer virtually as he signed the contract earlier this week.

"We do the group Facetime. The entire family, all of us. And, you know, he signed his contract with all of us on Facetime the other night," he said.

"It's exciting times, you know? You feel like you're going to burst."

Mercer's brother, Dawson, was drafted by the New Jersey Devils 18th overall in 2020. He's established himself as a key talent on the roster.

The two have faced off in the QMJHL before, but Bennett said he's eager to see it at the top level soon — even if it's a stressful experience.

"The most stress is going to be, for us, will be for Riley to do well," he said.

"Because Riley is the goaltender, 'It's always the goalie's fault," he added with a laugh.

Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Sign up for our daily headlines newsletter here. Click here to visit our landing page.