Sharks Lock Up Rising Star Collin Graf with Three-Year Contract

The San Jose Sharks have solidified their commitment to their young core by re-signing restricted free agent Collin Graf to a lucrative three-year contract valued at $4.25 million annually. This announcement comes just two days after the team secured superstar Macklin Celebrini with a record five-year deal worth an impressive $18.8 million AAV.

At only 23 years old, Graf has rapidly evolved from an undrafted free agent to a pivotal player in the Sharks’ future plans. His breakout 2025-26 NHL season saw him net 21 goals and add 25 assists, averaging over 16 minutes of ice time across 81 games. Graf’s contributions on the ice have not gone unnoticed, as Sharks general manager Mike Grier emphasized his importance in a statement: “Collin was a big part of our team’s improvement this past season, being an effective penalty killer for us and his versatility in the lineup was extremely valuable. His hard-working attitude and work ethic is a big reason why his game took another stride last year, and he continues to be an important person in our young group of players. We’re happy we are able to keep him a Shark for the next several seasons.”

Graf initially joined the Sharks in April 2024, where he played seven NHL games before the season concluded. His role expanded significantly the following year, as he participated in 33 games and ultimately became a key contributor in the latest season. The Sharks now view him as an integral piece alongside fellow prospects Celebrini, Will Smith, and Michael Misa.

In a conversation with San Jose Hockey Now’s Sheng Peng back in March, Graf explained his decision to join the Sharks over other teams, citing the organization’s honesty and the opportunity to grow with young talent. “They were honest. Just the opportunity, and then just trying to, at the time, to get in with the young guys and trying to build something here,” Graf shared.

The Sharks have successfully integrated Graf into their system, where he has developed into one of coach Ryan Warsofsky’s most-trusted penalty killers. Warsofsky noted Graf’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations, stating, “At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter the sport, coaches put out people… who they trust the most. And Collin has earned our trust in the way he stacked games together and in high-pressure situations.”

With this new contract, the Sharks are placing their faith in Graf as they aim for a successful season and a potential return to the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.