NHL Rumors: Celebrini’s Discount, Xhekaj Trade, Savoie Extension

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the San Jose Sharks believe they got a steal and landed a franchise bargain with Macklin Celebrini. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are getting calls on Arber Xhekaj but holding firm on their position about a trade. Finally, the Edmonton Oilers are taking a patient approach with Matthew Savoie’s next contract.

Sharks Lock In Celebrini on Team-Friendly Mega Deal

The San Jose Sharks got a massive piece of business done by signing Macklin Celebrini to a five-year extension worth $18.8 million annually—but the bigger story might be what he didn’t take. According to GM Mike Grier, Celebrini could have pushed for the full 20 percent max salary but instead left money on the table to give the team flexibility moving forward.

“Pretty cool for me to hear that from such a young player kind of having that maturity,” said Grier. Not everyone believes Celebrini left a lot on the table, but in a summer where contracts have skyrocketed, Celebrini’s deal is being viewed as one that could provide real value as it ages. Compared to recent deals for stars like Leo Carlsson and Connor Bedard, this contract could quickly become a bargain.

Some projections even suggest Celebrini’s true market value exceeds $20 million annually. There’s also a feeling that Celebrini’s deal won’t impact negotiations with Will Smith because Celebrini is viewed as someone on a different level of contract.

Canadiens Holding Firm Despite Xhekaj Trade Interest

The Montreal Canadiens are drawing interest from around the league regarding defenseman Arber Xhekaj, but they aren’t eager to move him. Several teams have reportedly checked in, including the Philadelphia Flyers, who have maintained long-standing interest, and the Calgary Flames.

Xhekaj, a restricted free agent, also isn’t pushing for a move. Both he and his camp have made it clear he wants to stay in Montreal, where he’s become a fan favorite. His agent, Brian Bartlett, said, “He loves playing in Montreal, he loves the fans, he loves the city…Our hope collectively…is that we can find a way to make it work in Montreal.”

However, the situation isn’t without complications. With Xhekaj and Jayden Struble both seeking larger roles, it could force the Canadiens into a tough decision.

Oilers Taking Wait-and-See Approach With Matt Savoie

The Edmonton Oilers and Matt Savoie appear to be in no rush to hammer out a contract extension, even as the young forward continues to show promise. According to his agent, there haven’t been any formal extension talks yet, largely because the Oilers are focused on contending in the present.

Gerry Johannson, Savoie’s agent, joined Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer and noted that Savoie would like to stay in Edmonton and is being patient as the team sorts out their priorities. “I think Matt is patient and really enjoys it here and did a good job last year, so we’re excited to see what he can do. I’m sure we’ll get down to that sooner than later.”

Savoie, who recorded 37 points in a full 82-game season, has shown enough to intrigue the organization—but perhaps not enough to fully convince them that a long-term deal is the best move. If the team commits too early, they risk overpaying for a player who may top out as a 20-goal scorer. If they wait, and Savoie breaks out offensively, the price could climb significantly.

There’s also the remote possibility of an offer sheet if negotiations drag on. For now, both sides seem comfortable letting things play out, even if it means a more expensive deal down the line.