San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini is entering the final season of his three-year, $2.93 million entry-level contract with the franchise after one of the best sophomore campaigns in recent NHL history.
The 20-year-old recorded 45 goals and 115 points in 82 games, set a Sharks franchise scoring record, and finished among the leading candidates for the Hart and Ted Lindsay awards while ranking fourth NHL-wide in total points.
Following his breakout season with both the Sharks and at the Olympics with Team Canada, it'd be fair to assume that Celebrini's next contract could reset the league’s salary market.
The fact that Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson recently received a five-year, $90 million deal carrying an NHL-record $18 million average annual value won't hurt, as Celebrini’s production could justify a larger number.
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However, that might not be in Celebrini's plans. The Sharks center spoke to ESPN's Greg Wyshynski and said he is willing to consider leaving money on the table if it helps San Jose build a better roster.
“Yeah, 100%,” Celebrini said when asked if he'd consider signing a discount deal if that helps win. “I mean, that’s why all of us play. We want to win. We’re competitive and we want to win.”
Celebrini played with Crosby, MacKinnon and Connor McDavid for Team Canada. All three stars have accepted contracts below what they could have demanded in the open market throughout their careers, giving their teams additional cap flexibility.
Crosby has signed three consecutive extensions at an average annual value (AAV) of just $8.7 million. McKinnon's deal carries a $12.6 million AAV. McDavid's sits at an AAV of $12.5 million.
“Obviously, guys want to get paid, as they should, because you’ve got to make a living,” Celebrini said. “But of course you want to put your team in the best spot possible where you give a team the ability to make moves necessary to win.”
Celebrini became eligible to sign an extension July 1, but he said neither side needs to rush.
“I think it’s just whenever it makes sense for both sides,” Celebrini said. “I still have a year left. There’s no reason to rush.”
