Elvis Merzlikins (born 13.4.1994) is a Latvian ice hockey goaltender. He has played in the NHL since 2019 and he has been playing his whole NHL career with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Merzlikins was named after Elvis Presley, his father was a huge fan of Elvis Presley.

Early Career

Even Merzlikins is a Latvian goaltender, he has played his junior hockey in Switzerland with HC Lugano. On 28.9.2013, Merzlikins made his NL debut with HC Lugano in a 2-1 victory over Lausanne HC. After season 2013-14, Merzlikins was voted NL Media Most Improved Player and NL Youngster of the Year. Result of those was that Merzlikins was selected 76th overall by Columbus Blue Jackets in 2014 NHL Draft. In season 2015-16, Merzlikins made his breakout in NL. He was leading league in saves (1484) and was second in SV% (0,922). Merzlikins and Lugano entered to the NL final, but they lose in 5 games to SC Bern. After season, Merzlikins won Jacques Plante Trophy as the best goalie of the League. On 22.6.2016, Merzlikins agreed to a three-year contract extension with HC Lugano. In season 2017-18, Merzlikins won again Jacques Plante Trophy. In season 2018-19, Merzlikins was again in good shape – GAA (2,44) and SV% (0,921).

Columbus Blue Jackets

On 20.3.2019, Merzlikins signed one-year, entry-level contract with Columbus Blue Jackets. On 5.10.2019, Merzlikins played his NHL debut against Pittsburgh Penguins. On 30.12.2019, start-up goalie of the Blue Jackets, Joonas Korpisalo, get injured and Merzlikins got his opportunity. He played good season with 33 regular season games and with SV% (0,923). On 23.4.2020, the Blue Jackets signed Merzlikins to a two-year contract extension.

International Play

Elvis Merzlikins played two times in World Junior Ice Hockey Championships (2012 and 2013) and once in World Junior Ice Hockey Championships D1 (2014) with Latvia. Merzlikins has also played four times in IIHF World Championships (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019) with Latvia. In the 2018 World Championships, he posted GAA (1,5) and SV% (0,940) in six games.