The San Jose Sharks announced Wednesday they signed forward Macklin Celebrini to a five-year, $94-million contract extension that will pay him an average annual value of $18.8 million starting in 2027-28.
The monumental agreement carries a record-breaking average annual value (AAV) of $18.8 million. When the deal officially kicks in at the start of the 2027-28 season, Celebrini will become the highest-paid player in NHL history.
Signed, sealed, extended. ✉️
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) July 29, 2026
Celebrini signs his extension.
The $18.8 million AAV surpasses the recent benchmark set by Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson, who recently signed a deal carrying an $18 million AAV following an offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers. By getting ahead of his impending restricted free agency, the Sharks have secured the 20-year-old phenom through the prime of his career.
“In just two seasons as a teenager in the National Hockey League and on the International stage, Macklin has established himself as one of the premier players in the world,” said Grier. “We are extremely excited to have him secured and committed as the centerpiece of a core of talented players in San Jose.
“I couldn’t be happier to sign an extension today,” Celebrini said in a press release. “My teammates and I are ready to take another step toward the ultimate goal of bringing a Stanley Cup to this city and its incredible fans. I can’t wait to get going.”
Celebrini, 20, scored 45 goals and added 70 assists for 115 points with San Jose in 2025-26, breaking the franchise record for the most points in a single season. He finished fourth in the NHL in goals, seventh in assists and fourth in points.