A New Era Begins
The San Jose Sharks announced this week that they have signed Ivar Stenberg to an entry‑level contract, a move that caps a whirlwind few days for the 2026 draft’s second overall selection.
Stenberg, who grew up in Sweden before moving to the United States, said he is eager to join the organization and fight for a spot in the team’s top nine forward group next season.
Sharks director of player development Todd Marchant praised the young forward, noting that his performance in the recent development camp has convinced the staff of his NHL‑readiness.
Marchant highlighted Stenberg’s speed, hands and ice vision, traits that set him apart from other prospects and earned him a place alongside Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick, in the camp’s elite cohort.
Celebrini, a fellow forward, also spoke about the possibility of sharing the ice with Stenberg, a partnership that could reshape the Sharks’ offensive dynamics.
Off the rink, Stenberg has been intensifying his training regimen, working daily with his brother Otto, whose physical presence complements Ivar’s stickhandling finesse.
The Swedish‑born winger admits he can operate from either wing, though he prefers the left side, and he believes his versatility will add depth to the lineup.
With the opening night of the season looming, the organization’s front office is already mapping out how the new contracts fit under the salary cap, while fans anticipate seeing the duo of Stenberg and Celebrini in action.