Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Elvis Merzļikins

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 12, 2026

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Elvis Merzļikins made an impact.

Elvis Merzļikins is a Latvian professional ice hockey goaltender currently playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL. Known for his athleticism and passion, Merzļikins quickly became a fan favorite in Columbus. Drafted by the Blue Jackets in 2014, he made his NHL debut in 2019. He has also represented Latvia in international competitions, including the World Championships. His strong performances have established him as a key player for the Blue Jackets.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2009: Joined HC Lugano

In 2009, Elvis Merzļikins joined HC Lugano, which allowed him to play in the National League (NL) with a Swiss player license.

2012: Participated in the World Junior Championships

In 2012, Elvis Merzļikins participated in the World Junior Championships as a member of the Latvia junior team.

2012: Playing in National League

In 2012, Elvis Merzļikins played in the National League (NL) with a Swiss player license and did not count as an import player.

September 2013: NL debut with HC Lugano

On September 28, 2013, Elvis Merzļikins made his National League (NL) debut with HC Lugano in a 2–1 victory over Lausanne HC.

2013: Participated in the World Junior Championships

In 2013, Elvis Merzļikins participated in the World Junior Championships as a member of the Latvia junior team.

2014: Drafted by Columbus Blue Jackets

In 2014, Elvis Merzļikins was drafted 76th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL entry draft.

2015: Breakout year

In the 2015 season, Elvis Merzļikins had a breakout year after leading the league in saves (1,484), ranking second in save percentage and fifth in wins with a 23–13–4 record in 44 contests.

June 2016: Three-year contract extension with Lugano

On June 22, 2016, Elvis Merzļikins agreed to a three-year contract extension with Lugano, without an NHL out-clause.

2016: Led HC Lugano to the NL final

In 2016, Elvis Merzļikins led HC Lugano to the NL final where they lost to SC Bern, he posted a .937 save percentage and 2.32 goals against average in 15 playoffs games, and he claimed the Jacques Plante Trophy as the league's best goalie.

2016: Debut in the World Championship

In 2016, Elvis Merzļikins was selected to the Latvia senior team for the World Championship and made his debut in the opening game against Sweden.

2017: Played in the World Championships

In 2017, Elvis Merzļikins played in the World Championships.

2018: Played in the World Championships

In 2018, Elvis Merzļikins played in the World Championships, posting a 1.50 goals against average and .940 save percentage in six contests.

2018: Captured Second Jacques Plante Trophy

In the 2017-18 season, Elvis Merzļikins captured his second Jacques Plante Trophy as the league's Goaltender of the Year after finishing fourth in wins and fifth in saver percentage with a 19–15–1 record in 40 contests.

March 2019: Joined Columbus Blue Jackets

On March 20, 2019, after the conclusion of the season with HC Lugano, Elvis Merzļikins left Switzerland and agreed to immediately join the Columbus Blue Jackets for the remainder of their season, signing a one-year, entry-level contract.