Offseason Checklist: San Jose Sharks

Published: Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 12:57 am

Sharks Offseason Outlook: Key Decisions Loom

The San Jose Sharks face a pivotal offseason, marked by the emergence of young talent and the need to bolster their roster for future success. The team's focus centers on contract negotiations, improving special teams, and adding core pieces to accelerate their rebuild.

Leading the charge is Celebrini, who is coming off a dynamic season. His performance has positioned him as a potential top-five finisher in Hart Trophy balloting. Contract talks are expected to be a major focus, with the team potentially looking at a deal in the $14-$15 million range annually. Smith, also coming off a strong season, is also due for an extension.

The Sharks' penalty kill was a significant weakness, allowing the sixth-most power-play goals in the league. Addressing this deficiency is crucial for playoff aspirations. The team will need to find players who can improve their penalty kill.

The team's draft position offers another opportunity to add a core piece. The Sharks hold the second overall pick in the upcoming draft. The team also has ample cap space and trade chips, providing flexibility to acquire additional talent. The team is looking to add a top-six forward or a core defender.

BNN's Perspective: The Sharks are at a critical juncture in their rebuild. While the team has promising young talent, addressing their penalty kill and adding experienced players will be key to accelerating their progress. The team's ability to navigate contract negotiations and make smart acquisitions will determine their trajectory.

Keywords: San Jose Sharks, Celebrini, Smith, contract, penalty kill, draft, rebuild, NHL, offseason, core players, salary cap, trade, free agency

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