Will Merchant Returns for 2020-21 Season

BOISE, Idaho – Forward Will Merchant has agreed to terms with the Idaho Steelheads for the 2020-21 season, Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Everett Sheen announced Thursday.

Merchant, 26, played in all 61 games with the Steelheads during the 2019-20 season, posting 18 goals and 18 assists for 36 points. The Eagan, Minnesota native will be entering his fifth season in the Treasure Valley.

“I’m excited for another great opportunity to play for the Steelheads,” said Merchant. “I can’t wait to get back to this great city and play in front of the best fans in the league.”

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound forward made his debut in Idaho on October, 14 2016 and has played with the Steelheads in each of his four seasons during his professional career. Through 230 games in a Steelheads uniform, Merchant has tallied 61 goals and 81 assists for 142 points.

 “Merchant is coming off a terrific season. He adds veteran leadership and dependability,” said Steelheads Head Coach Everett Sheen. “We know he is a 200-foot player who shows up every game and brings his best. He has been a staple in the Steelheads lineup during my tenure here and I look forward to continuing it this upcoming season.”

Prior to joining the Steelheads, Merchant played four seasons with the University of Maine, posting 22 goals and 17 assists for 39 points through 136 games, including 22 points (13g, 9a) through 36 games during his senior season in 2015-16.

Merchant is the third player announced by the Steelheads joining forwards A.J. White and Zach Walker. Future player announcements will be made at a later date.

Season tickets for the 2020-21 season are now available! Call the Steelheads Front Office at 208-383-0080 to plan your seats for next season. Stay connected to the Steelheads throughout the summer on idahosteelheads.com or by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.