Record-breaking contracts reshape the NHL landscape
Veteran forward Tomas Nosek, who spent eleven seasons carving out a niche in the NHL, has decided to finish his North American chapter where it all began — the Czech Republic. The 35‑year‑old signed a deal with HC Pardubice, bringing his 53.5 % faceoff win rate and 47 goals to the familiar ice of his homeland.
The Pittsburgh Penguins announced a three‑year, $13.95 million extension for forward Thomas Novak, locking the 27‑year‑old into the roster through 2029. Novak, who posted 16 goals and 26 assists in his first full season with the club, will now earn an average of $4.65 million per year.
San Jose Sharks made headlines by agreeing to a five‑year, $94 million contract with rookie sensation Macklin Celebrini, a deal that sets a new average annual value record at $18.8 million. The agreement, which runs through 2032, secures the 19‑year‑old’s services after he tallied 115 points in 82 games last season.
Joining Celebrini on the Sharks’ payroll is forward Collin Graf, who received a three‑year, $12.75 million extension following a breakout rookie campaign that yielded 21 goals and 25 assists in 81 games.
In Ottawa, negotiations over a new contract for winger Drake Batherson have stalled, with the two sides still a significant distance apart on financial expectations. Batherson, who posted 33 goals and 71 points in the 2025‑26 season, is slated to earn $4.95 million in the upcoming campaign.
These moves underscore a period of transition for the league, where seasoned veterans return to Europe, young stars secure unprecedented guarantees, and teams balance fiscal prudence with competitive ambition.