Sharks Sign Collin Graf to Three-Year Extension After Breakout Season
San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf battles for position with Seattle Kraken defenseman Will Borgen during an NHL game at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. Photo by Jenn G.
Written By Gina Anton
The San Jose Sharks are continuing to reward the players driving their rebuild, with Collin Graf becoming the latest young forward to earn a long-term commitment from the organization.
San Jose signed the 23-year-old to a three-year, $12.75 million contract Friday, carrying an average annual value of $4.25 million after a career-best 2025-26 campaign.
Graf recorded 21 goals and 25 assists for 46 points in 81 games last season while establishing himself as one of the Sharks' most versatile forwards, contributing at both even strength and on the penalty kill.
"Collin was a big part of our team's improvement this past season, being an effective penalty killer for us and his versatility in the lineup was extremely valuable," general manager Mike Grier said. "His hard-working attitude and work ethic is a big reason why his game took another stride last year, and he continues to be an important person in our young group of players. We're happy we are able to keep him a Shark for the next several seasons."
Originally signed by San Jose as an undrafted free agent on April 4, 2024, Graf has recorded 59 points (26 goals, 33 assists) in 121 NHL games. Before turning pro, the Lincoln, Massachusetts, native starred at Quinnipiac University, helping the Bobcats capture the 2023 NCAA national championship and finishing his collegiate career with 130 points (54 goals, 76 assists) in 112 games. He was named the ECAC Player of the Year in 2023-24 and was a Hobey Baker Award Top 10 finalist in each of his final two seasons.
What It Means for Fans
Graf's extension reflects San Jose's confidence in the players it has developed during its rebuild. For Sharks fans, it's another sign the organization is focused on keeping its emerging core together as it works toward becoming a consistent playoff contender.