Eight days after being selected first overall in the NHL Draft, the San Jose Sharks have officially signed 18-year-old Macklin Celebrini to his entry-level contract. The dynamic center had a pivotal decision to make: return for a second season at Boston University or jump directly into the NHL. Celebrini chose the latter, eager to take the next step in his promising hockey career.
"Macklin is not only a special player on the ice, but he is a poised, confident, and intelligent young man off it," stated Sharks general manager Mike Grier. "His combination of skills and hockey sense is rare, and we are extremely confident that he is ready to make this transition to being a full-time NHL player. We could not be more excited to have Macklin locked in formally to join the Sharks organization for the 2024-25 season."
College Success
Celebrini's decision comes on the back of an impressive freshman season at Boston University, where he netted 32 goals and accumulated 64 points in just 38 games. His scoring prowess didn't just make him a standout player but also led the Terriers in both goals and points. His performance was instrumental in taking the team to the national semifinal game, though they were ultimately bested in overtime by Denver.
For his outstanding contributions during the season, Celebrini was honored with the Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the nation's top men's player. Such accolades only further cemented his readiness for the NHL stage, a belief shared by both him and the Sharks organization.
Sharks' Rebuilding Phase
Securing Celebrini was a significant win for the Sharks, who landed the top draft pick after a challenging season that saw them finish with the worst record in the league. This marks another strategic move by the Sharks to rebuild their roster under the guidance of GM Mike Grier, who was appointed in 2022.
In recent years, the Sharks have made a concerted effort to bolster their draft capital. This strategy has led to multiple first-round picks over the previous two drafts and an additional two first-round picks in the upcoming one. Among their notable selections, besides Celebrini, are Will Smith, Quentin Musty, and Sam Dickinson.
Strengthening the Roster
The Sharks haven't just been focusing on young talent. Their roster currently features homegrown players such as William Eklund, Thomas Bordeleau, and Mario Ferraro, who represent the team's developmental successes. Additionally, experienced players like Barclay Goodrow, Tyler Toffoli, Jake Walman, and Alexander Wennberg have been brought in to provide leadership and stability.
Will Smith, another promising young player, was signed to an entry-level contract after his freshman season at Boston College, where he recorded 25 goals and 71 points. The Sharks' balanced approach of integrating youthful potential with seasoned expertise positions them for a brighter future.
A Personal Connection
Macklin Celebrini's ties to the Bay Area extend beyond the rink. Before his standout season at Boston University, he played a season for the San Jose Jr. Sharks, a move precipitated by his family's relocation from North Vancouver. This move was influenced by his father, Rick Celebrini, who took a job with the Golden State Warriors, further anchoring the family's connection to the Bay Area.
As the Sharks welcome Macklin Celebrini into their ranks, the organization and fans alike are hopeful that this young phenom can help turn the franchise's fortunes around. With Celebrini's undeniable talent and a focused strategy led by GM Mike Grier, the stage is set for a potentially transformative era in San Jose hockey.