San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini has agreed to a five-year, $94 million contract extension that will make him the highest-paid player in the NHL when it takes effect for the 2027-28 season.
The 20-year-old star will earn an average annual cap hit of $18.8 million, following a standout rookie campaign where he recorded 45 goals and 115 points.
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Setting a New Benchmark
Celebrini's deal represents 16.6 percent of the projected $113.5 million salary cap ceiling in 2027-28.
By comparison, Connor McDavid's eight-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers in 2017 was worth $12.5 million annually, taking up 15.7 percent of the cap at that time.
The extension follows a recent landmark offer sheet signed by Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson for $18 million annually.
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Rising league revenues from media deals and potential franchise expansion are projected to push the salary cap up to $160 million by 2031-32.
Celebrini's $18.8 million hit will account for under 12 percent of the ceiling in its final year.
This contract highlights a shifting trend away from seven- and eight-year extensions for young players.
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Short-term, high-value deals allow young stars to secure maximum income while setting up lucrative third contracts in their mid-20s.
