Paul Bissonnette has said that the San Jose Sharks secured more than a franchise player when they signed Macklin Celebrini to a record-setting extension. Speaking on the Spittin Chiclets podcast, the former NHL forward compared the 20-year-old center to one of hockeys greatest players after his historic new deal.Celebrini signed a five-year, $94 million extension on July 29, carrying an NHL-record $18.8 million average annual value. The contract begins in 2027-28 after the final season of his entry-level deal. It surpassed Leo Carlssons $18 million AAV and Connor Bedards $15 million extension signed earlier this summer.MORE: Patrice Bergeron recalls Sidney Crosbys jaw-dropping play with 2005 Team CanadaBissonnette said Carlssons offer sheet helped establish the market but did not believe money alone drove San Joses decision.I would say, Thank you, Leo Carlsson offer sheet, because that kind of set around where he was going to get, Bissonnette said. But I dont really think it mattered.He added, San Jose is one of those markets where its like, Okay, we need to keep a guy like this.'Macklin Celebrinis rise has changed San Joses timelineSan Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini (71) waits for play to resume against the St. Louis Blues in the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Bissonnette reserved his strongest praise for Celebrinis complete game, comparing him directly to Penguins captain Sidney Crosby.He broke the all-time record for most points in a season last year in his second year in the NHL. I mean, hes Sidney Crosby 2.0, Bissonnette said. Hes the perfect player.Celebrini earned those comparisons after producing 115 points in 82 games, breaking Joe Thorntons franchise record. He finished fourth in NHL scoring and fourth in Hart Trophy voting while leading Canada in goals during its Olympic silver-medal run.Bissonnette continued, He does his own dirty work. You see these clips where hes out there just busting his a** for a minute straight, stripping guys, getting in on the forecheck, backchecking, and then he can get it done offensively.The extension reflects San Joses confidence in its rebuilding plan. General manager Mike Grier has added veterans including Darnell Nurse, Jacob Trouba, and Mason Marchment to support a young core featuring Will Smith, Michael Misa, and Ivar Stenberg.MORE: Macklin Celebrinis massive NHL contract comes with big expectationsIf that group develops together, Celebrinis contract could become the foundation of the Sharks return to Stanley Cup contention rather than simply a record-breaking payday.