Macklin Celebrini, the San Jose Sharks' leading scorer, is open to signing a contract extension as soon as this summer. Celebrini finished the season with 115 points in 82 games.
What happened?
The 19-year-old centerman's three-year entry-level contract expires after the 2026-27 season.
The Sharks and Celebrini can sign a new deal as early as July 1.
Why it matters for Macklin Celebrini
Celebrini's contract extension is a key factor in the Sharks' future success.
Sharks general manager Mike Grier said he hasn't had any discussions with Celebrini's agent, Pat Brisson, about an extension.
What comes next?
The Sharks, with Celebrini leading the way, hope to take the next step as a team next season and break a seven-year playoff drought.
Celebrini could be a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy, given annually to the player adjudged to be the most valuable to his team.
On 18 April, Celebrini broke Joe Thornton's franchise record of points in a single season with 114 in 2006-07.
Celebrini scored or assisted on over 45% of the Sharks' 251 goals this season.
The Sharks finished with a record of 39-35-8 for 86 points, a 32-point improvement over last season.
Celebrini heard chants of “MVP, MVP” this season during several games at SAP Center.
In league-wide scoring, Celebrini only finished behind Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, Tampa Bay Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov, and Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon.