Some contracts are big news. This one rewrites the record books entirely.
Macklin Celebrini has signed a five-year, $94 million extension with the San Jose Sharks, making him the highest-paid player in NHL history by average annual value — and he is only 20 years old.
The Numbers Behind the Record
The deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $18.8 million, officially the richest contract rate in NHL history. It surpasses the previous record of $18 million per season held by Anaheim's Leo Carlsson.
Celebrini had just one year remaining on his entry-level contract before signing this extension, which locks him up with San Jose through the 2031-32 season. The contract begins in the 2027-28 season and includes heavy signing bonuses alongside a final-year no-move clause.
Why Celebrini Is Worth Record Money
Celebrini has produced at a historic level early in his NHL career. Last season, he posted 45 goals and 70 assists for 115 points, breaking Joe Thornton's single-season franchise record of 114 set back in 2006-07. That total trails only Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby for the most points in a season by a player before turning 20.
He also led all goal-scorers at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics with five goals, earning a silver medal with Team Canada.
Building around San Jose's Core
Sharks General Manager Mike Grier emphasized that Celebrini is the cornerstone of their long-term project. San Jose's young core continues to gain depth alongside fellow emerging talents like Will Smith, Michael Misa, and recent draft picks like Ivar Stenberg.
- Record AAV: $18.8 Million per season.
- Franchise Landmark: 115-point sophomore season.
- International Star: Top goal scorer at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.