San Jose, Calif. – The San Jose Sharks announced on Thursday that forward Macklin Celebrini has agreed to a five‑year extension worth $94 million, beginning with the 2027‑28 season. The deal sets his average annual value (AAV) at $18.8 million, well under the league’s maximum of roughly $20.8 million per season, which is capped at 20 percent of the team’s salary cap.
Celebrini’s rationale
Celebrini explained that the decision was driven by a desire to keep the Sharks competitive over the long term. “I want to make sure that with where the NHL salary cap was going, the number made sense for the team first and foremost,” he said. “Keeping a little bit more flexibility for everyone is not a bad thing. I’m committed to this team and this organization.”
Impact on the roster
By forgoing the maximum possible salary, Celebrini leaves an estimated $2 million in cap space that could be used to retain or acquire additional talent. The Sharks missed the playoffs by a narrow margin last season, and the front office hopes that the added flexibility will help turn the club into a free‑agent destination in the coming years.
General manager Mike Grier expressed confidence that the contract aligns with the organization’s rebuilding timeline. “Macklin is a cornerstone of our future,” Grier said. “His willingness to be reasonable with his contract shows his commitment to building a winning culture here in San Jose.”
Future outlook
San Jose’s young core – which includes Celebrini, Will Smith, William Eklund, and Michael Misa – is expected to mature together, giving the team a solid foundation for sustained success. The Sharks will open their preseason on September 20 in Anaheim against the Ducks, a team that also seeks cap flexibility, before beginning the regular season on October 1 at home versus the Florida Panthers.
Fans and analysts alike view the contract as a prudent move that balances rewarding a top talent with preserving the financial health of the franchise. As the NHL salary cap continues to rise, the Sharks’ approach may serve as a model for other clubs looking to blend star power with roster depth.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
