San Jose Sharks star Macklin Celebrini is set to become one of the highest-paid players in NHL history by average annual value (AAV). His five-year contract extension worth $94 million, starting in the 2027-28 season, will earn him $18.8 million annually.
Sharks General Manager Mike Grier demonstrated his willingness to invest in Celebrini, though the player chose to leave some potential earnings on the table for strategic reasons.
Celebrini could have demanded $20.8 million per year, based on NHL rules allowing up to 20% of the team’s salary cap for a player’s salary. Yet, he decided to prioritize team competitiveness over maximizing personal income.
Celebrini explained his approach, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the team’s financial flexibility. “I want to make sure that with where the (NHL salary) cap was going, that the number made sense for the team first and foremost,” he said. “Keeping a little bit more flexibility for everyone isn’t really a bad thing. I’m committed to this team and this organization.”
This choice reflects Celebrini’s vision for the Sharks’ long-term success, providing room for other players to be compensated adequately and strengthening the team’s potential to attract top talent.
His decision may soon prove advantageous as the Sharks work towards becoming a more competitive team. Last season, they narrowly missed the playoffs, but their growing roster of young talent—including Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Michael Misa—positions them as a contender in the coming years.
The San Jose Sharks will begin their preseason on September 20 in Anaheim against the Ducks, followed by their regular season opener on October 1 at home against the Florida Panthers.
With strategic moves like Celebrini’s contract, the Sharks could become a significant destination for free agents looking for opportunities in a competitive team environment.