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9h ago

Sharks Secure William Eklund With Three-Year, $16.8 Million Bridge Extension

Delaying Eklund’s major payday will maintain the Sharks’ cap flexibility for the upcoming season

Apr 5, 2025; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks left wing William Eklund (72) plays the puck against the Seattle Kraken during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images/File Photo
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John Klingberg #36 of the Edmonton Oilers skates during practice prior to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers at Rogers Place on June 03, 2025 in Edmonton, Alberta. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The extension begins in 2026-27 after Eklund’s entry-level contract expires and runs through 2028-29.
  • It carries an average annual value of $5.6 million, including a $1 million salary and $4.4 million signing bonus in its first year.
  • Eklund posted career highs of 58 points, 17 goals and 41 assists in his second full NHL season as the Sharks’ second-leading scorer.
  • General manager Mike Grier led early negotiations with agent Todd Diamond and praised Eklund’s work ethic and nightly consistency.
  • By using a bridge deal, the Sharks defer a larger commitment until the NHL salary cap—currently $88 million—is projected to exceed $110 million by 2027-28.