Macklin Celebrini gave Ryan Warsofsky's Sharks an encouraging answer about his next contract.
During media work connected to NHL 27, Celebrini was asked whether he would consider accepting less money to help San Jose build a stronger roster.
" "Yeah, 100%. I mean that's why all of us play," said Celebrini in an interview with ESPN. "We want to win. We're competitive and we want to win. Obviously, guys want to get paid -- as they should, because you've got to make a living. There are guys that deserve those numbers that are getting them, 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. I think all that goes into the decision. "
The 20-year-old said he would seriously consider it. His reasoning centred on winning and giving management enough flexibility to make meaningful additions.
Celebrini also recognized that players deserve to be paid according to their value. He didn't promise a discount or reveal what his future contract expectations might be.
That distinction matters. San Jose hasn't secured an agreement, and Celebrini's comments shouldn't be presented as a commitment to accept specific terms.
Still, his response offers Mike Grier something every general manager wants from a franchise player: awareness of how one contract can shape an entire roster.
Macklin Celebrini may have just made the biggest decision of his young career
Celebrini referenced the type of decisions associated with Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon, stars who became central figures on teams built to compete deep into the spring.
The Sharks remain responsible for constructing a roster worth supporting. A player-friendly message doesn't remove pressure from management to draft well, develop talent and spend cap space wisely.
Warsofsky also needs enough depth to avoid placing every offensive expectation on Celebrini. Strong teams require scoring across several lines, reliable special teams and support from the blue line.
A future discount would only matter if San Jose turned the savings into useful players. Leaving cap room unused wouldn't help Celebrini reach the competitive stage he clearly wants.
His answer should still excite Sharks fans. Celebrini spoke like a player thinking beyond his own production and considering what the organization will need around him.
There is plenty of time before the next contract becomes official. His performance, the salary market and San Jose's progress will all influence the final number.
For now, Celebrini has made his priority clear without making an unrealistic promise. He wants to be paid fairly, but he also wants the Sharks positioned to win.
That balance could become one of Grier's biggest advantages when negotiations begin. San Jose has its cornerstone, and Celebrini is already talking about helping the roster grow around him.
Source : Macklin Celebrini makes bold proclamation about his next contract.
Should Macklin Celebrini accept less money to help the Sharks build a contender?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
A former 100-point superstar is headed to the Eastern Conference in blockbuster proposal
