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Celebrini Open to Sharks Extension After Record Season

ESPN NHL •
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San Jose Sharks star Macklin Celebrini has expressed openness to signing a contract extension this summer after his record-breaking second NHL season. The 19-year-old forward, who broke the franchise record with 115 points, has one year remaining on his $2.925 million entry-level contract signed after being drafted first overall in 2024.

Celebrini, eligible for restricted free agency after next season, said he's "open to every possibility" regarding his future with the Sharks. Under the new collective bargaining agreement, this summer represents the final opportunity for players to sign eight-year extensions with their current teams before the limit drops to seven years starting in September. The young phenom said he hasn't decided between long or short-term deals, noting the season just ended.

Coming off one of the greatest seasons ever for a teenager, Celebrini trails only Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby for most points before turning 20. His performance generated frequent MVP chants at the Shark Tank and puts him in contention for the Hart Trophy alongside NHL stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid. While the Sharks missed the playoffs for a seventh straight season, Celebrini's emergence provides hope for the franchise's future as he considers committing long-term to San Jose.