Macklin Celebrini Shines in San Jose Sharks' Development Camp
San Jose, CA — The San Jose Sharks' development camp kicked off with a bang on a Tuesday morning, as 18-year-old sensation Macklin Celebrini made his much-anticipated debut at Sharks Ice in San Jose. As the first-ever No. 1 overall draft choice in the franchise’s history, Celebrini’s presence on the ice drew considerable attention and excitement from fans and teammates alike.
"It's nice to be wanted. It's been good. They were out there supporting today. From everything I've heard, they are some of the best fans in the league. I'm excited to start playing in front of them," Celebrini remarked, expressing his appreciation for the San Jose community. His debut comes as he weighs a significant decision—whether to play for the Sharks this season or return to Boston University for his sophomore year. "It's coming up. I'll make the decision pretty quick here. Just trying to enjoy this camp, and after that I guess it's time to make a decision," he added.
Exceptional Talent on Display
Celebrini's performance at Boston University was nothing short of remarkable. As a freshman, he scored 32 goals and added 32 assists in 38 games, showcasing both his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. His exceptional season earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, which is bestowed annually upon the best player in NCAA men's ice hockey.
John McCarthy, head coach of the San Jose Barracuda, the Sharks' AHL affiliate, has been thoroughly impressed by the young forward. "Really good. He was super competitive on pucks. I thought that's what stood out to me the most," McCarthy observed. He further elaborated on Celebrini's character and skill level, noting, "As impressive as he is as a player and his skill level, they're equally as impressed as a person. The way that he carries himself, the way that he goes about his business, it's high end, which is why he went first overall."
A Promising Future for the Sharks
For the San Jose Sharks, Celebrini represents a beacon of hope after a tumultuous season that saw them finish with a 19-54-9 record. Celebrini's potential debut in the NHL is eagerly anticipated, as he could play a significant role in revitalizing the team. "We're moving in the right direction. There's so many players getting ready to make their debut, especially with the signings that we've made. It's an exciting time," Celebrini stated, optimistic about the franchise's future.
Macklin Celebrini's hockey journey has deep roots in Northern California. He moved to the area in 2018 and soon after played with the Junior Sharks U-14 team in 2019, fostering a connection with the local hockey community. Adding to the family’s sports connections, his father, Rick Celebrini, serves as the vice president of player health and performance for the Golden State Warriors, another notable Bay Area sports entity.
The Path Forward
The Sharks’ annual prospect scrimmage, set for Thursday, will be another pivotal moment for Celebrini to demonstrate his abilities and make his case for joining the NHL roster this season. Despite the pressures and high expectations, Celebrini remains grounded and focused on enjoying the sport. "It's been fun. It's been a long process throughout the draft and stuff, but now it's when the fun begins. You just get to skate, play hockey and just have fun with the guys," he candidly shared.
As the development camp progresses, the San Jose Sharks organization and its dedicated fanbase await Celebrini's decision with bated breath. One thing is certain: Macklin Celebrini's talent and character have already begun to leave an indelible mark on the team, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Sharks hockey.