Macklin Celebrini reacts to Leo Carlsson’s record $90M contract

Macklin Celebrini has weighed in on Leo Carlsson’s record-breaking contract, calling it a sign of the times for NHL salaries. The San Jose Sharks superstar spoke to ESPN on July 16 after being named the cover athlete of EA Sports NHL 27, just days after Carlsson’s deal reshaped the league’s financial landscape.

What happened?

On July 3, Carlsson signed a five-year, $90 million offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers at $18 million per season: the highest AAV in NHL history. The Anaheim Ducks matched the offer on July 9, locking Carlsson into a six-year deal with the franchise. The contract sent shockwaves through hockey circles, with players and pundits debating whether such numbers would become the new normal under the league’s rising salary cap.

Celebrini, whose own rookie contract expires in one year, told ESPN he wasn’t surprised by the figure once he considered Carlsson’s elite production. The Ducks center finished the 2025-26 season with 67 points, but Celebrini’s own 115-point rookie campaign puts him in a different tier: one that could command even more on his next deal.

Why it matters for Macklin Celebrini

Carlsson’s deal raises the bar for every young player due for a new contract, including Celebrini. The Sharks center’s next deal: likely in 2027: could push past $20 million per season if he delivers another 100-point year. But Celebrini may choose to take less to help San Jose build a contender around him.

“That means the salaries are raising for players,” Celebrini said. “That’s the most important thing for a lot of the guys, just to get that financial stability.” He added that Carlsson earned the money, and the cap’s rise makes such deals inevitable.

How the Sharks could benefit

If Celebrini takes a hometown discount, the Sharks gain cap flexibility to add depth and stay competitive. The team missed the playoffs in 2025-26, and GM Mike Grier needs room to improve the roster. A lower AAV for Celebrini frees up funds for trades and free-agent signings.

But the Sharks can’t afford to lose their franchise center. Celebrini is the face of the franchise, and San Jose will need him to lead a rebuild. His next contract will define the Sharks’ window: whether they chase a quick return or bet on a slower, smarter rebuild.

What comes next?

Celebrini’s next deal will likely arrive in summer 2027. Until then, he’ll focus on training and preparing for another 82-game grind. The Sharks will watch closely, knowing his value isn’t just in points: it’s in leadership and marketability.

For now, Celebrini is riding high as the face of EA Sports NHL 27. The cover gig caps a breakout rookie season, and his next payday will reflect the new NHL reality Carlsson helped create.