Sharks Don’t Extend Smith Before 8-Year Deadline; It Doesn’t Matter

The NHL had a bit of a signing frenzy on Tuesday, but that frenzy didn’t include the San Jose Sharks and extension-eligible Will Smith.

Sept. 15 was the deadline to extend players with the maximum term of eight years. Starting at midnight Eastern time on Sept. 16, the longest a team can extend a player is now seven years. Including Sept. 14, NHL teams handed out four more eight-year deals, two to the Washington Capitals.

One of those signings included Smith’s former teammate at Boston College, Ryan Leonard.

But San Jose Sharks fans shouldn’t worry about the lack of an extension for Smith. The two sides have been in contact throughout the summer, which GM Mike Grier has confirmed. The likelihood of Smith getting to the 2027 off-season without an extension seems low, even if it is signed after the season but before July 1, 2027.

Looking at the Sharks’ contracts, one thing is consistent with Grier: he doesn’t like long-term contracts. Macklin Celebrini signed a five-year extension, which is the longest deal Grier has given out since he took over. Only Celebrini, Mason Marchment, and Kiefer Sherwood have signed for five years. Every other player has signed or been acquired for less than five years.

Smith has shown no reason to want to leave the San Jose Sharks. His actions this summer also suggest that he is setting himself up to be here for an extended period, as he intends to live in a house with Celebrini. Celebrini, whose extension doesn’t start until 2027-28, will be in teal for a very long time.

The Sharks winger could also be betting on himself this season. After scoring 59 points (24 goals, 35 assists) in 69 games, Smith could be in for a huge third NHL season. With health permitting, Smith could reach 80-90 points and look for an even bigger contract.

Sharks fans should hope for a four-, six-, or seven-year extension for Smith, as staggering his deal with Celebrini could help keep the two locked up for a long time.