Connor McDavid is full of praise for Macklin Celebrini as young Sharks forward emerges as major force ahead of Thursday’s match

Macklin Celebrini is making waves in the NHL during his second season, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s most promising young forwards. Macklin Celebrini is quickly making a name for himself with strong stats and a mix of skill, speed, and hockey sense that few players his age have.Even at just 19, he’s already a key part of San Jose’s push toward the playoffs. His consistent scoring and ability to impact games on both ends of the ice have made him a player to watch as the Sharks chase their first postseason appearance since 2018-19.“He’s having a great year,” Connor McDavid said of Celebrini. “He’s a young guy that is fun to watch, exciting to watch. Obviously, they’re a team that’s feeling pretty good about themselves. It’s pretty impressive to see that whole team come together.”Celebrini has recorded 78 points (27 goals, 51 assists) in 51 games this season, ranking fourth in the NHL. His recent performance, including a goal and three assists in a 5-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks, underscores his value to the team. San Jose (27-21-3) is tied with the Los Angeles Kings and Seattle Kraken for the second wild card in the Western Conference, just two points behind the Anaheim Ducks in the Pacific Division.Selected first overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, Celebrini made an immediate impact in his rookie season with 63 points in 70 games and earned a Calder Trophy finalist nomination. It’s hard not to compare Celebrini to NHL stars like McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, since all three came into the league with big expectations as No. 1 draft picks. Nugent-Hopkins has pointed out that it’s rare for a young player to make such an immediate impact, and he praises Celebrini’s maturity and understanding of the game.Before making it to the NHL, Celebrini stood out internationally with Team Canada at the 2024 World Junior Championship, scoring eight points in just five games while only 17. He also impressed in the USHL and at Boston University, showing his scoring touch and all-around game, hints of the player he is today in the NHL.Celebrini and McDavid will meet Thursday when the Sharks take on the Oilers, and both will later represent Team Canada at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan-Cortina. With his skill, determination, and hockey sense, Celebrini is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young players in the league.