Full Breakdown
San Jose Sharks Extend Goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic's Contract
3/7/2026, 4:21:18 AM
Contract Details and Performance Highlights
The San Jose Sharks have signed goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic to a two-year contract extension valued at $6 million, translating to an average annual value (AAV) of $3 million. This extension secures Nedeljkovic's position with the team through the 2027-28 NHL season. At 30 years old, Nedeljkovic has played 26 games this season, achieving an 11-9-2 record, a 2.83 goals-against average (GAA), and a .902 save percentage (SV%). Notably, he has won six of his last eight appearances, maintaining a save percentage of at least .913 during this stretch.
Career Overview
Nedeljkovic's NHL career spans 205 games across teams including the Carolina Hurricanes, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Sharks. He holds an overall record of 85 wins, 69 losses, and 29 overtime losses, with a GAA of 2.97 and a .903 SV%. His rookie season in 2020-21 was particularly impressive, as he led the NHL with a 1.90 GAA and a .932 SV%, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team and finishing third in Calder Trophy voting.
Goaltending Tandem and Team Dynamics
Nedeljkovic's extension solidifies the Sharks' goaltending depth alongside 23-year-old Yaroslav Askarov, who is under contract through next season with a $2 million AAV. Askarov has recorded a 19-16-2 record with an .887 save percentage in 38 games this season. The Sharks, currently three points behind the Seattle Kraken for the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference, are positioning themselves as surprising contenders, bolstered by the strong performances of both goaltenders.
Official Statements & Responses
General Manager Mike Grier expressed confidence in the decision to extend Nedeljkovic, indicating that the move reflects the team's commitment to building a competitive roster. Nedeljkovic himself stated, “It’s exciting... Happy to wake up with a deal done and keep building with this group. Excited to stick around.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the extension has been generally well-received, some analysts speculate whether the Sharks might have pursued a more established goaltender, such as Sergei Bobrovsky, given their playoff aspirations. However, the decision to retain Nedeljkovic has quelled such discussions, allowing the team to focus on their current roster.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Happy to wake up (Friday) with a deal done and keep building with this group. Excited to stick around.” — Alex Nedeljkovic, Goaltender, San Jose Sharks
- “This extension aligns with San Jose’s patient but deliberate rebuilding strategy, which has seen tangible progress this season.” — Analyst Commentary
What's Next
As the Sharks continue their push for a playoff berth, they will rely heavily on the performance of Nedeljkovic and Askarov in the coming games. The team’s recent success, including a three-game winning streak, has heightened expectations for the remainder of the season.
