San Jose Sharks Sign William Eklund To Three-Year $16.8M Extension

The San Jose Sharks have signed 22-year-old forward William Eklund to a three-year, $16.8 million contract extension set to begin in the 2026-27 NHL season, with an average annual value of $5.6 million. Eklund, who had career highs last season with 58 points, 17 goals, and 41 assists, will remain a restricted free agent after this deal, which serves as a bridge contract allowing both sides to reassess his fit and value as the NHL salary cap is projected to rise significantly. This extension provides the Sharks with cost certainty for a key young player who is part of their promising core, including prospects like Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa. Eklund is expected to play a top-six role and contribute on the power play once he recovers from wrist surgery sustained during a tune-up game for the 2025 IIHF World Championship; he is anticipated to be ready for training camp. The Sharks are balancing their salary cap as they aim to reach the cap floor, and this signing ensures Eklund remains with the team while maintaining flexibility for future roster decisions. Eklund’s progression and increasing offensive output make him a significant piece for the Sharks' future competitiveness.