As the San Jose Sharks began the 2024-2025 season, rookie Macklin Celebrini was the key storyline for the team. The new face of the franchise was the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and is widely considered the favorite to win the Calder Trophy as the league’s top first-rounder.

Well, it didn’t take long for Celebrini to show the Sharks why he is the pillar on which San Jose rebuilds. In the team’s season opener against the St. Louis Blues, the rookie phenom scored the team’s first goal of the 2024 season and the first goal of his NHL career. The goal came just 7:01 into the first period, giving the Sharks an early 1-0 lead.

The piece was everything Celebrini was advertised to be. It started with his deft footwork and uncanny acceleration. With just a few steps at center ice, he found himself in a weak spot in the neutral zone. He took a cross-ice pass from his linemate William Eklund and was able to deflect a quick pass with ease. Celebrini attempted a spin-o-rama heads-up when he fired the backhand shot into the net. The puck had eyes as it left the 18-year-old forward’s stick and sneaked behind St. Louis Blues goaltender Joel Hofer. Celebrini’s teammates cheerfully beat up the young centerman after the game. The Sharks shared a clip of the goal on their X account.

Before joining the Sharks, Celebrini was an unstoppable force in the NCAA. As a freshman at Boston University, he became the youngest Hobey Baker Award winner, scoring 64 points in just 38 games. He also impressed on the international stage, scoring eight points in four games at the Junior World Championship.

The Sharks hope to ride the Celebrini wave with a better record this season. Celebrini is joined by another talented newcomer, Will Smith. The second overall pick in the 2023 draft, Smith has also proven his skills in the NCAA. He’s also making his NHL debut with the Sharks and has the skills and size to be a top centerman in the league. The Sharks franchise is hoping at least one of these players moves up.

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