Alexander Wennberg signs three-year extension with San Jose Sharks

The San Jose Sharks have secured forward Alexander Wennberg with a three-year, $18 million contract extension, announced on Sunday, January 4, 2026. The deal, carrying an average annual value of $6 million, keeps the 31-year-old center in teal through the 2028-29 season. Wennberg, who was approaching unrestricted free agency, has become a key piece for the rebuilding franchise since joining as a free agent before the 2024-25 campaign.

This extension comes at an exciting time for Wennberg, who was recently selected for Sweden’s roster at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. His steady production and versatility have made him indispensable, anchoring the second line and contributing on the top power-play unit.

Contract breakdown and terms

The new pact provides Wennberg a modest raise from his previous two-year, $10 million deal signed in July 2024, which had a $5 million cap hit and a modified no-trade clause. Starting next season, the $6 million AAV offers stability amid the Sharks’ upward trajectory.

San Jose’s front office acted swiftly to lock in Wennberg before the trade deadline buzz could intensify. General manager Mike Grier emphasized the forward’s leadership and two-way play in a team statement.

Over 118 games with the Sharks, Wennberg has tallied 17 goals and 44 assists, showcasing his reliability. This extension aligns with the team’s strategy to blend veterans with young stars like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.

The deal spans three seasons, positioning Wennberg, at age 34 by its end, as a mentor figure. Financially prudent at $6 million AAV, it leaves cap flexibility for future moves.

Wennberg’s impact this season

In 41 games during the 2025-26 season, Wennberg has notched seven goals and 19 assists for 26 points, ranking third in team scoring. His assist total ties for second, highlighting his playmaking prowess.

Recently, he factored on the scoresheet in wins over Anaheim and Vancouver, including an assist on a game-winner. Even in a 7-3 loss to Tampa Bay on January 3, he logged 19:38 of ice time.

Coach Ryan Warsofsky trusts Wennberg in all situations, from 5-on-5 to power plays, where he has two goals and three assists. His 52 blocked shots underscore his defensive commitment, with a minus-12 rating reflecting team context.

Versatility defines him; he’s centered the second line while jumping to the top unit when needed. On pace for a career-best with San Jose, surpassing last year’s 35 points.

Career highlights and journey

Drafted 14th overall by Columbus in 2013, Wennberg debuted soon after, amassing 396 points over 830 regular-season games. Stops in Florida, Seattle, and New York followed before landing in San Jose.

Career stats: 108 goals, 288 assists, including 19 playoff points in 56 games. His best came with the Blue Jackets, where stability allowed growth.

Since 2020, frequent moves honed his adaptability. In San Jose, he’s found a home, thriving under Warsofsky. Alexander Wennberg’s full stats reveal consistent 20-30 point paces.

Quotes capture his joy: “I’m super excited. We love San Jose from the second we got here,” Wennberg said post-announcement, per Sharks Hockey Digest. “To be part of this and the future as well, we couldn’t be happier.”

Olympic selection and future outlook

Named to Team Sweden last week, Wennberg joins stars like Elias Lindholm for Milan Cortina. Tied for 10th in assists among Swedish forwards, his selection validates the extension.

The Sharks, at 20-18-3 and sixth in the Pacific, host Columbus on Tuesday. Securing Wennberg bolsters their wild-card push.

This deal signals commitment to contention. With Celebrini and Smith emerging, Wennberg bridges eras.

Looking ahead, expect Wennberg to chase 40 points while mentoring youth. For San Jose, it’s a cornerstone amid rebuild. What it means: stability fueling playoff aspirations.