Merchant joins Swamp Rabbits for third pro season

Greenville, S.C. – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits have come to terms on a contract with forward Will Merchant for the 2018-19 season.

The Swamp Rabbits acquired the rights to Merchant two weeks ago from the Idaho Steelheads, completing the future considerations portion of a trade for Jack Nevins during the regular season. Merchant is entering his third season in the pro ranks, having played the last two years in Idaho. He has collected 94 points (38g-56a) in 139 ECHL games and also made his AHL debut in 2016-17 with the Texas Stars. The 24-year-old ranked fifth on the Steelheads last season with 46 points (17g-29a) and notched three game-winning goals. He also brings playoff experience to the lineup after logging 11 games and four points (1g-3a) in two postseason appearances.

The Eagan, Minnesota native is a product of the University of Maine from 2012-16. As a senior, Merchant led the Black Bears with 13 goals and added nine assists for a career-best 22 points. He also captained the club in the 2015-16 season. In total, Merchant logged 136 games and 39 points (22g-17a) at Maine.