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Macklin Celebrini recognizes his favorable circumstances.
Poised to be the youngest Canadian participant in an Olympic event featuring NHL athletes, the 19-year-old only needed 125 professional appearances before reaching the pinnacle of sports.
A substantial number of his colleagues, seasoned veterans boasting Stanley Cup victories, MVP accolades, and scoring championships, questioned if their chance would materialize.
Nevertheless, the league is now returning to the global spotlight at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games following a 12-year hiatus. Celebrini, with his youthful appearance, is a fortunate recipient of this change.
“I am extremely appreciative,” stated the North Vancouver, B.C. forward. “Fortunate to occupy this position.”
The NHL abstained from the 2018 Olympics due to financial considerations, and then the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted advanced plans for a 2022 comeback.
“It is challenging that many of these individuals have not had this opportunity when they rightfully should have,” Celebrini commented. “I am simply blessed and privileged.”
Furthermore, Celebrini fits in.
The San Jose Sharks forward has participated in two practice sessions alongside Connor McDavid on his wing — Canada held a private practice Monday, but head coach Jon Cooper confirmed Sunday’s line combinations remained — with the imposing Tom Wilson covering the opposite side.
‘Maturity Beyond His Age’
“His physical age might be 19, but his understanding of the game is far more advanced,” Cooper remarked about Celebrini, the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL draft. “He exhibits wisdom beyond his years. I cannot view him as just a youngster; he is an outstanding hockey player.”
Celebrini ranks fourth in the league’s scoring charts in his second season, accumulating 81 points, 42 more than any other Sharks player, while his 53 assists across 55 games are tied with fellow Canadian teammate Nathan MacKinnon for the third-highest total.
“Extremely impressive,” stated the 30-year-old MacKinnon, selected by the Colorado Avalanche as the top pick in 2013. “I was nowhere near that level at 19. It’s remarkable to witness.”
McDavid, who was the first overall pick for the Edmonton Oilers in 2015, is only beginning to get acquainted with Celebrini. Similar to MacKinnon, he had to wait considerably longer for his initial Olympic appearance.
“Simply from the brief time spent with him, I can discern his dedication, his diligent effort, and his commitment to the sport,” said the 29-year-old McDavid, the NHL’s leading scorer in 2025-26 with 96 points. “It’s been striking to observe. He’s so young, yet to make this squad, and not only that, he’s expected to fulfill a significant role—that is extraordinary.”
Canadian general manager Doug Armstrong, from the St. Louis Blues, had a discussion with Celebrini in October 2024 prior to a game against the Sharks. The young player was informed he likely wouldn’t be considered for the 4 Nations Face-Off — a preliminary event to the Olympics, which Canada won decisively last February — but Milan was a plausible objective.
“I was simply thrilled,” Celebrini expressed. “I wasn’t even aware I was on their radar or part of the discussion. When he brought that to my attention, it provided a slight boost and excitement; just a bit more inspiration to anticipate and strive for.”
And indeed, he dedicated himself.
Appreciation from Skipper Crosby
Celebrini concluded his rookie campaign with 63 points (25 goals, 38 assists) over 70 games before his explosive performance this season, contributing to San Jose’s unexpected playoff contention.
Canadian captain Sidney Crosby had his initial close observation during last year’s world championship.
“It’s simply his mental approach,” commented the 38-year-old, who once held Celebrini’s position as the first overall pick by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2005. “He is a diligent worker, competitive. He seeks out these scenarios, desires to be in critical moments. It’s not accidental.”
Celebrini has now represented Canada at various levels, experiencing disappointment at the world junior hockey championship.
He comprehends and embraces the immense pressure for a gold medal under the most intense scrutiny as the dominant nation aims for a fourth top-podium finish with its NHL players, following triumphs in 2002, 2010, and 2014.
“We simply hold that expectation for ourselves,” Celebrini stated. “We have that self-imposed expectation to bring honor to our nation.”
“It is a tremendous privilege and something I deeply value.”
