According to a report from RG Media, the San Jose Sharks and defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin are nearing a contract extension.
“The two sides have nearly finalized the agreement, with an official announcement expected soon,” the report states.
Mukhamadullin’s three-year entry-level contract was completed at the end of the 24-25 season. The Sharks defenseman had to cut the end of his year short after suffering a shoulder injury against the Anaheim Ducks.
The 23-year-old took a massive step forward in his development this season. In 30 games with the Sharks, Mukhamadullin had two goals and seven assists. He often played his weak side as a lefty and played it well.
It is unclear what Mukhamadullin’s next contract with the San Jose Sharks will look like. The report by RG Media states that internally, the Sharks are ready to make Mukhamadullin a full-time NHL player for the 25-26 season.
“[I want to be better at] everything,” Mukhamdullin said at his exit interview. “[We] talked about my ice, skating, stickhandling, my physicality, and conditioning. Right now, [I want to get stronger] every season. I need to [take] big steps in some of them. It’s push time for me.”
Mukhamadullin stayed in San Jose after the NHL season to rehab his injury. The Sharks’ d-man told reporters he would return to Russia for part of the summer before returning for training camp, which he is expected to be healthy for.
The San Jose Sharks view Mukhamadullin as a key piece to the young defense core. At 23, the Sharks hope Mukhamadullin can be the top shutdown man for years.
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