Macklin Celebrini Joins Sharks Development Camp Amid Career Decisions
Tuesday morning saw the start of the San Jose Sharks' development camp, and it carried a special significance as Macklin Celebrini, the franchise’s first-ever No. 1 overall draft choice, made his debut at Sharks Ice in San Jose. The 18-year-old, who is still navigating the pivotal decision of whether to join the Sharks this season or return to Boston University for his sophomore year, displayed an impressive performance at the camp.
"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 commented on his looming choice.
Celebrini's arrival in San Jose marks another step in his journey that began when he moved to Northern California in 2018. During his time here, he played with the Junior Sharks U-14 team in 2019, setting the stage for his future career. At Boston University, Celebrini had an outstanding freshman year, scoring an impressive 32 goals and 32 assists in just 38 games, an achievement that earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award.
Notable Performance and High Praise
John McCarthy, the head coach of the San Jose Barracuda, the Sharks' AHL affiliate, took note of Celebrini’s skills on the ice during the development camp. "Really good. He was super competitive on pucks. I thought that's what stood out to me the most," McCarthy remarked.
More than just his talents, Celebrini's maturity has also garnered attention. "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," McCarthy added.
McCarthy isn’t alone in his high regard for Celebrini. The young player himself has been soaking in the atmosphere and support from the 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," Celebrini noted.
Sharks' Optimism and Rebuilding
The San Jose Sharks, coming off a tough season with a 19-54-9 record, are looking forward to new beginnings with Celebrini. "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 shared, reflecting optimism amid the rebuilding process.
As Celebrini looks to integrate into the team, the Sharks are also gearing up for their annual prospect scrimmage set for Thursday. This event will likely provide another platform for young talents, including Celebrini, to showcase their skills and make a strong case for their place in the main roster.
Family Ties and Influences
Celebrini's connection to professional sports extends beyond his own endeavors on the ice. His father, Rick Celebrini, serves as the vice president of player health and performance for the Golden State Warriors, underscoring a family deeply entrenched in elite sports culture.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Celebrini navigates the final decision about his immediate future, the entire organization and fan base eagerly await his call. For now, he seems poised and ready to take the next step in his career, fueled by a strong developmental foundation and an inherent passion for the game. "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 said, encapsulating the joy and determination that drive him.
Celebrini's presence at the development camp, coupled with his potential debut for the Sharks, symbolizes not just a personal milestone but a beacon of hope for a team and community eager for a resurgence.