Eight days after being chosen with the No. 1 overall pick, the San Jose Sharks have officially signed 18-year-old Macklin Celebrini to his entry-level contract. The decision marks a significant step in Celebrini’s burgeoning hockey career, as he opts to leave Boston University after a stellar freshman season to join the NHL.
The young center had an impressive tenure with Boston University, tallying 32 goals and 64 points across 38 games, making him the top scorer for the Terriers. Celebrini's remarkable performance not only led his team to the national semifinal game, but also earned him the Hobey Baker Award, distinguishing him as the nation’s top men’s player.
The Sharks, a team that has missed the playoffs for the last five seasons, secured Celebrini after winning the NHL Draft Lottery, a reward for finishing with the league’s worst record. In a concerted effort to rebuild, the Sharks have been active in enhancing their draft capital, resulting in a haul that includes two first-round picks in both the previous and upcoming drafts. Recent additions to their prospect pool include not only Celebrini but also Will Smith, Quentin Musty, and Sam Dickinson.
Will Smith, similar to Celebrini, was signed to an entry-level contract after an outstanding freshman season at Boston College, recording 25 goals and 71 points. Such moves signify a strategic shift under the tenure of general manager Mike Grier, who was hired in 2022 and has been steering the team towards a future grounded in young talent bolstered by experienced acquisitions.
Grier expressed immense confidence in Celebrini's readiness to transition to the NHL. "Macklin is not only a special player on the ice, but he is a poised, confident and intelligent young man off it. 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," Grier stated.
Celebrini’s journey to the NHL is also a narrative of personal growth and adaptation. After his family moved from North Vancouver to the Bay Area, he spent time playing for the San Jose Jr. Sharks, a period that undoubtedly contributed to his development. The move was influenced by his father, Rick Celebrini, who took a job with the Golden State Warriors, further rooting the family in the region.
The current Sharks roster is a blend of homegrown talent and seasoned players. Alongside budding stars like William Eklund, Thomas Bordeleau, and Mario Ferraro, the team features veterans such as Barclay Goodrow, Tyler Toffoli, Jake Walman, and Alexander Wennberg. This amalgamation of youth and experience aims to foster a competitive edge and a strong team dynamic.
As the Sharks look to revitalize their lineup and redefine their legacy, Celebrini’s entry could be a pivotal moment in their quest for success. His scoring ability and hockey intelligence are assets eagerly anticipated by both the organization and the fans.
The future holds promise for the Sharks as they continue to build a roster capable of competing at the highest level, framing Celebrini as a centerpiece in their long-term strategy. This signing not only highlights the team's commitment to nurturing young talent but also marks a significant step in San Jose’s journey back to prominence in the NHL.