Macklin Celebrini gave Ryan Warsofsky and the Sharks exactly what they wanted to hear about his next deal.
The story isn't about dollars yet. It's about mindset, and Celebrini just showed where his head is before contract talks even become a real front-burner issue.
During media work tied to NHL 27, Celebrini was asked whether he'd consider leaving money on the table on his next contract. He didn't dodge it.
“Yeah, 100%,” he said.
That line lands because plenty of young stars talk about winning. Not many say it this directly when the question turns to their own payday.
Celebrini doubled down with the part Sharks fans will remember most: “We want to win.”
Celebrini sends a message early
That matters in San Jose because a rebuild only works when the top players buy into more than ice time and highlight reels. It has to show up in priorities too.
Celebrini also kept the balance real. He said players “want to get paid,” and he's right. Nobody in that locker room is pretending contracts don't matter.
But his strongest line was the one about wanting to “put your team in the best spot possible.” That's the part front offices notice. So do veterans.
For the Sharks, this doesn't mean a discount is already locked in. It means their franchise piece is already talking like a player who understands roster building, cap pressure, and what it takes to keep help around him.
That's a big step for a player who turned 20 this year. The tone felt mature, measured, and fully aware of the bigger picture around a rebuilding club.
Warsofsky is trying to build a team identity that lasts. Hearing Celebrini lean into a team-first approach this early gives that room something real to grab onto.
And for Sharks fans, that's the headline. The talent was never the question. Now the attitude is matching it.
Would you take less money if you were Macklin Celebrini to help the Sharks build a winner?
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