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San Jose Sharks Will Be Forced to Make Trade After Surpassing NHL Contract Limit

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Jack Sutherland | Last updated Sep 11, 2025 11:28 AM ET

The Sharks have surpassed the NHL contract limit with 51 after the signing of prospect Michael Misa, and could soon be forced to make a trade to become compliant under the rules.

With the 2nd pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the San Jose Sharks took Michael Misa, who they anticipate being with the organization for years to come.

He's the 2nd top-2 pick the Sharks have had recently, as they also took Macklin Celebrini with the 1st overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft after winning the Draft Lottery.

But with Misa's signing, the Sharks now officially have 51 contracts on the books, which is one more than is allowed under NHL rules.

San Jose Sharks Currently Sit at 51 Contracts - Will Need to Make a Trade Imminently

The Sharks have multiple players who are on the last years of their respective contracts.

Some of the names that could be considered for a trade by GM Mike Grier who likely don't fit into the club's long term plans include Philipp Kurashev and Colin Graf, along with Ty Dellandrea.

One player who doesn't have a future with the Sharks is Ryan Reaves, while captain Logan Couture's contract is still on the books despite his playing career having ended.

The Sharks may have just acquired Carey Price's contract from the Montreal Canadiens, but they could also try and swing a similar trade for Couture's deal with a team that wants to get closer to the salary cap floor.

By most projections, the Sharks aren't going to come close to making the postseason this year, which would also increase their chances of getting yet another top pick in next year's Draft.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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