The San Jose Sharks narrowly missed the playoffs this season, finishing with a 39-35-8 record and 86 points, just four shy of a wild-card spot. Despite falling short for the seventh straight year, rising star Macklin Celebrini believes the team took meaningful steps forward, crediting veteran leadership for helping shape the group’s identity.
Macklin Celebrini Praises Former Maple Leafs Forward for Sharks’ Toughness
Celebrini wrapped up his second NHL season in dominant fashion, leading San Jose with 115 points in 82 games, good for fourth in the league. The gap between him and the next-highest scorer on the team, Will Smith (59 points), underscored just how heavily the Sharks leaned on their young star offensively.
Still, the biggest takeaway for Celebrini wasn’t just production; it was culture. In a letter published through The Players’ Tribune, he reflected on the season and highlighted the influence of veterans, particularly former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Ryan Reaves.
Reaves was acquired in the offseason in a trade that sent defenseman Henry Thrun the other way.
“I give a lot of credit to our vets like (Ryan Reaves) Reavo and (Tyler) Toffoli. The impact they have on our group, it’s almost impossible to explain really,” Celebrini said.
“It’s not just who they are on the ice, or what they say to the media. It’s the energy, the attitude, the way they treat others. It lifts our whole room. They make us go. They’re just great guys to be around, and I feel like the whole community right now is just such good vibes,” he added.
The Sharks’ near-miss suggests progress, but the focus now shifts to the offseason and Celebrini’s future. The young forward has one year remaining on his three-year, $2.925 million entry-level contract and becomes eligible to sign an extension after July 1.
At locker cleanout day, Celebrini kept the door open regarding his next deal. “I’m just open to every possibility. There’s nothing really that goes into it. It goes hand in hand with me. I want to commit to this team and being here. I love it here. I’m open to whatever happens,” he said.
Timing could also play a role. Under the current collective bargaining agreement, this offseason marks the final opportunity for teams to offer their own players eight-year extensions. Starting in September, the maximum term drops to seven years, adding urgency to potential talks.
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Whether Celebrini signs this summer or later, one thing is clear: the Sharks are building around him. And if the leadership he praised continues to shape the roster, San Jose’s playoff drought may not last much longer.
