A day after coming in as the 10th ranked prospect amongst North American skaters for the 2020 NHL Draft by NHL Central Scouting, Dawson Mercer has another honour.
Mercer, from Bay Roberts, is one of three players nominated for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s Paul Dumont Trophy as personality of the year. The Paul Dumont Trophy recognizes individuals who had a positive media impact and helped improve the league’s image throughout the season.
Past recipients include Sidney Crosby, Jonathan Drouin and Brad Richards.
The other 2019–2020 finalists are Alexis Lafreniere of the Rimouski Océanic and Matthew Welsh of the Charlottetown Islanders.
Mercer, from the Chicoutimi Sagueneens, is up for the Michael Bossy Trophy as the best professional prospect, along with Lafreniere.
According to a QMJHL news release, Mercer was probably this year’s quickest rising star.
“Underestimated at the beginning of the 2019–2020 campaign, his irreproachable work ethic, his outstanding talent and his amazing personality made him a favourite for most fans, scouts and media members,” read the release.
The Newfoundland and Labrador native exceeded expectations all season long. He was rewarded with invitations to the CIBC Canada Russia Series, the World Junior Championship - where he won gold alongside Lafrenière - and the Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.