As Tom Fitzgerald, the New Jersey Devils, and Luke Hughes and his camp continue to grind away at a new contract that works for both sides, there's one thing they will try to avoid seeing happen again.
Last season, Devils forward Dawson Mercer held out into the start of training camp, signing his three-year, $12 million deal with New Jersey on Sept. 20. Notably, Mercer, 23, is represented by agent Pat Brisson, who also represents Jack Hughes and Luke Hughes.
In his contract year, in 2023-24, Mercer scored just 20 goals, 13 assists, and a career-worst 33 points.