The San Jose Sharks announced on Wednesday that 20‑year‑old forward Macklin Celebrini has agreed to a five‑year, $94 million contract, a deal that makes him the highest‑paid player in NHL history.
The agreement guarantees an average annual value of $18.8 million beginning in the 2027‑28 season, surpassing the previous earnings record set by Connor McDavid.
General manager Mike Grier praised Celebrini’s focus, stating that the young star is already dedicating himself to training and preparation as the new campaign draws near.
Both the player and the organization stressed the need to finalize the contract quickly, aiming to eliminate any distractions that could disrupt the upcoming season.
The unprecedented financial terms underscore the accelerating rise of the league’s salary cap, a trend that has turned massive contracts into a realistic benchmark for elite talent.
A New Chapter for the Sharks
Celebrini’s deal not only reshapes his personal career trajectory but also signals a strategic shift for San Jose, positioning the franchise to compete at the highest level while navigating the financial landscape of modern hockey.