University of Massachusets Athletics
Mercuri Signs Two-Year ELC With Tampa Bay Lightning
March 31, 2025 | Hockey
AMHERST, Mass. – University of Massachusetts hockey senior forward Lucas Mercuri has signed a two-year entry-level NHL contract, which will begin with the 2025-26 season. He will report to the Syracuse Crunch and play the remainder of the 2024-25 season on an AHL tryout. Mercuri becomes the 16th player in head coach Greg Carvel's UMass tenure to ink an NHL deal.
Mercuri, a native of Montreal, Quebec, was originally drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the sixth round, 159th overall, in the 2020 NHL Draft. Tampa Bay traded for Mercuri's rights on Sunday in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick in 2025.
""I am extremely pleased for Lucas after signing his NHL contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning," said Carvel. "Lucas is a shining example of a young player who developed his game immeasurably during his time at UMass and is now reaping the rewards of his daily attitude, commitment, and effort. Lucas developed into a hard-nosed player that did all the little things that allow teams to win and his teammates to prosper. His leadership and competitive nature set him apart and ultimately earned him this outstanding accomplishment. I am grateful for the time we had together and honored to have had the opportunity to work closely with Lucas."
"The past four years at UMass have been unforgettable," said Mercuri. "I am so grateful for my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone who made this journey special. The memories, lessons and friendships will last a lifetime. Thank you to everyone in the UMass community who supported me along the way. I will forever bleed Maroon and White!"
Mercuri finished his UMass career tied for fourth in program history in games played with 148, missing just one game in four years. He logged 85 career points on 28 goals and 85 assists with six power-play markers and five game winners.
In 2024-25, Mercuri enjoyed his best season with the Minutemen, posting career highs in goals (10), assists (21) and points (31).
Mercuri, a native of Montreal, Quebec, was originally drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the sixth round, 159th overall, in the 2020 NHL Draft. Tampa Bay traded for Mercuri's rights on Sunday in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick in 2025.
""I am extremely pleased for Lucas after signing his NHL contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning," said Carvel. "Lucas is a shining example of a young player who developed his game immeasurably during his time at UMass and is now reaping the rewards of his daily attitude, commitment, and effort. Lucas developed into a hard-nosed player that did all the little things that allow teams to win and his teammates to prosper. His leadership and competitive nature set him apart and ultimately earned him this outstanding accomplishment. I am grateful for the time we had together and honored to have had the opportunity to work closely with Lucas."
"The past four years at UMass have been unforgettable," said Mercuri. "I am so grateful for my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone who made this journey special. The memories, lessons and friendships will last a lifetime. Thank you to everyone in the UMass community who supported me along the way. I will forever bleed Maroon and White!"
Mercuri finished his UMass career tied for fourth in program history in games played with 148, missing just one game in four years. He logged 85 career points on 28 goals and 85 assists with six power-play markers and five game winners.
In 2024-25, Mercuri enjoyed his best season with the Minutemen, posting career highs in goals (10), assists (21) and points (31).
Players Mentioned
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