Macklin Celebrini Shines in San Jose Sharks Development Camp
On a brisk Tuesday morning, the San Jose Sharks’ development camp rolled out the carpet for an array of emerging talents at Sharks Ice. Amongst the fresh faces, none drew more attention than Macklin Celebrini, the team’s first-ever No. 1 overall draft choice. At just 18 years old, Celebrini made his much-anticipated debut, and the icy arena was buzzing with potential.
The Young Prodigy
Celebrini is already contemplating the crossroads of his nascent career. The young forward has a significant decision looming: whether to lace up for the Sharks this upcoming 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," Celebrini shared candidly.
His freshman year at Boston University was nothing short of spectacular. He racked up 32 goals and 32 assists in just 38 games, a feat that earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award. Such accolades have set high expectations for Celebrini, not just from the fans, but also from the coaching staff.
Praise from the Coaches
John McCarthy, the head coach of the San Jose Barracuda, the Sharks' AHL affiliate, was particularly impressed with Celebrini’s competitive spirit. "He was super competitive on pucks. I thought that's what stood out to me the most," McCarthy said, highlighting the promising aspects of Celebrini’s play during the camp. McCarthy, who is keenly aware of the skills required at the professional level, believes Celebrini’s off-ice attributes are equally remarkable. "I think he is a mature kid. I know a lot of people [at Boston University], and talking to them about him, 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 Fan Favorite in the Making
The fans, a critical piece of the hockey puzzle, have already extended their support. "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 enthused. This engagement with the supporters could be a springboard for the young talent as he adjusts to the professional arena.
Facing Reality
The Sharks are in dire need of rejuvenation after a challenging season that ended with a 19-54-9 record. The organization is hopeful that its new talents will turn the tide. Celebrini is optimistic about the future, saying, "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."
As Celebrini contemplates his immediate future, the organization awaits his decision with bated breath. Whether he chooses to don teal this season or return for another year at Boston University, his trajectory suggests a bright future. The Sharks’ annual prospect scrimmage this Thursday will provide another glimpse of what Celebrini and his fellow prospects might offer.
Celebrini’s journey has been facilitated by strong familial support. His father, Rick Celebrini, serves as the vice president of player health and performance for the Golden State Warriors, underscoring a family deeply ingrained in professional sports. Macklin’s move to Northern California in 2018 and his stint with the Junior Sharks U-14 team in 2019 have prepped him well for this next chapter.
For now, hockey enthusiasts and stakeholders alike watch in anticipation. Missed shots and game-winning goals alike await Macklin Celebrini, but with his skills and maturity, they seem more like milestones than obstacles on his road to what promises to be a stellar career.