Elvis Merzļikins, the skilled Latvian goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the National Hockey League (NHL), is not just a formidable presence on the ice but also a loving father. Elvis and his wife, Aleksandra Merzlikins, welcomed their first child, a son, into the world in 2021.
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The couple’s joy was accompanied by a poignant and meaningful decision in naming their newborn. The middle name chosen for their son honors the late Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks. Kivlenieks, tragically lost in a fireworks accident at the home of Blue Jackets goaltending coach Manny Legace during the Fourth of July weekend, had made a heroic sacrifice that profoundly impacted the Merzlikins family.
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In an emotional Instagram post, Elvis Merzļikins expressed gratitude to the hospital staff for their care and to the Blue Jackets organization and fans for their support, including thoughtful gifts. The newborn’s middle name, Matiss, is a poignant tribute to Kivlenieks, highlighting the profound impact the late goalie had on Merzļikins and his family.
Elvis Merzļikins shared the depth of his gratitude, acknowledging Kivlenieks’ heroic act that saved his family. He stated, “He saved my son, he saved my wife, and he saved me. My son’s second name is gonna be Matiss.” The decision to name their child in memory of Kivlenieks reflects the close bonds formed within the hockey community and the enduring impact teammates can have on one another’s lives.


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