Macklin Celebrini is rapidly establishing himself as a force to be be reckoned with in the NHL, drawing comparisons to some of the game's all-time greats. Drafted first overall by the San Jose Sharks in 2024, the young center is not just meeting expectations, he's exceeding them, placing himself in the company of legends like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby.
Celebrini's ascent has been nothing short of meteoric. In a recent game, he reached the 50-point mark in just 34 games, making him the third-fastest teenager in NHL history to achieve this feat. The only players to have reached the milestone faster are Crosby (28 games) and Gretzky (32 games, twice). This remarkable achievement underscores Celebrini's exceptional talent and hockey sense, solidifying his status as a rising star.
The San Jose Sharks are undoubtedly thrilled with their top pick. Celebrini's impact extends beyond mere statistics. His two-way play, combined with his offensive prowess, makes him a valuable asset in all zones. He is also a responsible player in the defensive end.
Prior to joining the Sharks, Celebrini had a stellar season with Boston University, where he recorded 32 goals and 32 assists for a total of 64 points in 38 games. His outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, making him the youngest player to ever receive the honor. He was also named Hockey East Player of the Year, Hockey East Rookie of the Year, and Hockey East Scoring Champion.
Celebrini's talents extend to the international stage, where he has represented Canada in multiple tournaments, including the 2024 World Junior Championships and the 2025 IIHF World Championship.
While comparisons to legends like Gretzky and Crosby might seem premature, Celebrini's early success indicates a trajectory toward superstardom. Some scouts see similarities between Celebrini and Crosby, noting Celebrini's effectiveness in high-traffic areas and his understated yet highly effective playmaking. Others see shades of Jonathan Toews in Celebrini's two-way game and competitive spirit.
As Celebrini continues to develop and refine his game, he has the potential to carve out his own unique legacy. Whether he ultimately reaches the heights of Gretzky or Crosby remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Macklin Celebrini has already put himself in some great NHL company.
