Macklin Celebrini Shines in Debut at San Jose Sharks Development Camp
Tuesday morning was a significant moment for the San Jose Sharks and their fans as their first-ever No. 1 overall draft choice, Macklin Celebrini, made his debut at Sharks Ice in San Jose. The 18-year-old phenom, who is weighing his options between starting his NHL career or returning to Boston University for his sophomore year, showcased why he has been the center of attention since being drafted.
"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 stated, reflecting the maturity that many have noted in him.
At the helm of the Sharks' AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, head coach John McCarthy heaped praise on the young talent. "Really good. He was super competitive on pucks. I thought that's what stood out to me the most," said McCarthy. His sentiments echo the growing optimism surrounding Celebrini's potential impact on the team.
Celebrini's path to the NHL has been nothing short of meteoric. As a freshman at Boston University, he recorded an impressive 32 goals and 32 assists in just 38 games, earning him the coveted Hobey Baker Award. However, his roots in Northern California run deep. Celebrini moved to the area in 2018 and even played for the Junior Sharks U-14 team in 2019.
Adding to the buzz, Celebrini expressed his excitement about the support from Sharks fans. "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." For fans, this enthusiasm is reciprocated as they look forward to the bright future this young star promises.
Reflecting on the journey from the draft to the development camp, Celebrini shared, "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." These words encapsulate the joy and passion that he brings to the rink, qualities that are sure to endear him to his teammates and fans alike.
McCarthy emphasized Celebrini's character, a trait as significant as his skill on the ice. "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." This praise underscores the holistic development Celebrini has undergone, grooming him not just as a player but as an individual ready for the professional stage.
As the Sharks prepare for their annual prospect scrimmage set for Thursday, there's a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the team, a marked shift from their previous season's record of 19-54-9. Celebrini himself noted the positive direction the team is heading. "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."
This development camp also sheds light on the influence of Celebrini's family background. His father, Rick Celebrini, plays a significant role in sports health as the vice president of player health and performance for the Golden State Warriors. This connection to elite-level sports and player management enriches Celebrini's understanding of professional athletics from an early age.
Summing up Celebrini’s potential, McCarthy reflected, "I think he's a really, really talented, really good hockey player. As far as the other stuff, that's kind of above me." This statement captures the universal excitement and high expectations that the Sharks' management, players, and fans hold for this promising young athlete.
As the Sharks' development camp progresses, the anticipation builds not just for Celebrini's decision but for the ripple effect his presence is anticipated to have on the team. For now, fans and the organization alike are relishing the glimpses of brilliance that Celebrini is already showcasing on the ice.