Celebrini would consider taking discount on next contract with Sharks, star says
Macklin Celebrini, a forward for the San Jose Sharks, has indicated he would consider taking a discount on his next contract with the team. This sentiment is partly influenced by the actions of his Team Canada teammates, Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon, who have previously signed deals below their potential market value to benefit their respective teams.
Celebrini acknowledged that the desire to win and be competitive is a primary motivator. He stated that while players deserve to be paid, the ability to put the team in the best possible position to make necessary moves for success is a significant factor in his decision-making process.
Crosby has signed three consecutive contracts with the Pittsburgh Penguins, each with an average annual value of $8.7 million, which is noted as being below his market worth. Similarly, MacKinnon signed for $12.6 million per season in 2022, despite having the opportunity to set a new market standard.
Contract Considerations and Performance
Celebrini, who recently turned 20 in June, is currently in the final year of his entry-level contract for the 2026-27 season. He became eligible to sign an extension with the Sharks on July 1, but the North Vancouver native stated there is no rush to finalize a deal. He believes the timing will be right when it makes sense for both parties involved.
Coming off a season where he finished third in Hart Trophy voting, and with a rising salary cap, Celebrini could potentially command a record-setting contract. However, his focus appears to be on providing the Sharks with financial flexibility to build a roster capable of competing for the Stanley Cup.
In the 2025-26 season, Celebrini recorded 115 points, including 45 goals and 70 assists, across 82 games. This performance placed him among an exclusive group of teenagers who have achieved 100 points in an NHL season, joining players such as Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Dale Hawerchuk, Jimmy Carson, and Crosby.
Cover Athlete Recognition
In other news, EA Sports announced that Macklin Celebrini will be the cover athlete for NHL 27. This makes him the youngest player to be featured on the cover of the video game franchise. He is also only the second Sharks player to receive this honour, following former San Jose player Owen Nolan, who was on the cover for NHL 2001.
Celebrini’s impact on the Sharks and the sport has been significant in a short period. After his rookie campaign, he was a key offensive force for the team. He finished fourth in the NHL with 115 points in the past season, contributing 45 goals and 70 assists in 82 games.
His international performances have also been notable. Celebrini was part of Canada’s roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics, where he scored five goals and 10 points in six games, leading all skaters in goals. He finished second in tournament scoring behind Connor McDavid, helping Canada reach the gold medal game. He also captained Canada at the IIHF Men’s World Championship, where he registered six goals and 14 points in 10 games, earning him the title of 2026 IIHF Male Player of the Year.
The Sharks came up short of a Wild Card spot in the Western Conference in the past season.
Source: sportsnet.ca
