My answer to the title of thread:
The Sharks are only ready to compete in 2026 (which I interpret as compete for the playoffs -- not contend for the cup) if in this offseason or next, we significantly turn over our D corps, and our great prospect pool actually turns into productive players in the league. There's a chance of that but I still think, even with Celebrini, that we are pushing for the playoffs in 2026-27.
The thread itself, which is "Can the Sharks attract McDavid to sign with us / trade for him by 2026"?
I feel like McDavid is a pipe dream, and will cost so many assets that it's almost certainly not worth it. Gretzky never won in LA. I would be surprised if he forced Oilers to let him walk like Tavares did, so it'll cost way too much anyway.