Macklin Celebrini has signed a five-year, $94 million contract extension with the San Jose Sharks, making him the highest-paid player in the National Hockey League. The deal carries an average annual value of $18.8 million, surpassing the previous record.
Celebrini, 20, was eligible for the extension as he enters the final year of his entry-level contract. The new agreement will begin at the start of the 2027-28 season. The forward expressed his excitement about the extension, stating his happiness to "sign an extension today." He also noted the "faith and support" from the Sharks organization and his eagerness to "take another step toward the ultimate goal of bringing a Stanley Cup to this city."
The 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick has become a star for San Jose. In the 2025-26 season, he set a franchise record with 115 points and recorded the second-most goals in Sharks history with 45. Celebrini was also a finalist for the Ted Lindsey Award, given to the most outstanding player as voted on by the NHL Players Association.
Sharks general manager Mike Grier praised Celebrini's development, calling him "one of the premier players in the world" after just two seasons in the league. Grier stated that the team is "extremely excited to have him secured and committed as the centerpiece of a core of talented players in San Jose." He also acknowledged the "respectful negotiation process" and the flexibility provided by Celebrini and his representatives in structuring the deal to aid in building the team around him.