Key Highlights
- Macklin Celebrini, a 19-year-old player for the San Jose Sharks, has been voted as the “next face of the NHL.”
- Celebrini scored a hat trick at Madison Square Garden in his first game with the Sharks.
- His work ethic and maturity on the ice have impressed his teammates, including Tyler Toffoli.
- Celebrini credits Sharks veterans for making him more comfortable in the NHL.
Macklin Celebrini: The Next Face of the NHL?
At just 19 years old, Macklin Celebrini is rapidly establishing himself as a top prospect in the National Hockey League (NHL). According to a recent poll conducted by The Athletic, Celebrini was voted as the “next face of the NHL,” a title that reflects his exceptional skills and mature demeanor on the ice. This recognition comes after an impressive rookie season with the San Jose Sharks.
Early Impacts
Celebrini’s journey to becoming a star began in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he trained alongside hockey legends Sidney Crosby and Patrice Bergeron at the World Championship. His older brother, Aiden, recalls Celebrini being starstruck during this time, saying, “He’s like, ‘Sid is the perfect human.’ Like, ‘the best guy, best athlete.’ He wouldn’t stop talking about it.” These experiences have clearly influenced Celebrini’s approach to the game.
Notable Performances and Future Prospects
Celebrini’s rookie season with the Sharks was marked by significant achievements. In his first seven games of the 2025 season, he scored 11 points, a figure that has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in NHL history. The San Jose Sharks’ star William Eklund described Celebrini as “a cross-breed of Sidney Crosby and Patrice Bergeron,” highlighting his ability to combine skill with maturity on the ice.
One of Celebrini’s standout performances came when he became the youngest player ever to score a hat trick at Madison Square Garden.
This milestone, along with his five-point night, has solidified his reputation as one of the NHL’s rising stars. Tyler Toffoli, who played alongside Celebrini during their rookie season, praised his teammate for his intense work ethic and competitive spirit.
Support System and Team Dynamics
According to Toffoli, Celebrini’s transition to the NHL was made easier by the support of Sharks veterans. “He works so hard, he wants the puck and demands the puck and holds onto pucks and is super strong,” says Toffoli. “That’s something that Mac does very well.” Toffoli notes that Celebrini’s ability to take control in games stands out as a key asset for such a young player.
Beyond his on-ice skills, Celebrini has formed close bonds with his teammates, particularly Will Smith. The two players have shared memorable moments, including an infamous sleepover at Toffoli’s room after a game where they each scored to win a bet. These off-the-ice connections have helped Celebrini settle into life in the NHL.
Family and Routine
Celebrini’s family has been crucial in his development as an athlete. His father, Rick, who is the director of sports medicine and performance with the Golden State Warriors, emphasizes that Macklin hasn’t changed much since joining the Sharks. “It’s a cliche, but it’s really true,” he says. “He’s noticed a little more. He has more money in his bank account.
He has a different audience to play in front of. But other than that, nothing has really changed.” This stability is evident in how Celebrini still engages with his former teammates from Boston University, including Jack Harvey.
Despite the attention and accolades, Celebrini remains grounded. “It’s in the back of my mind, and it’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid,” he says. “That’s the goal.” As he continues to grow as an athlete and a person, Macklin Celebrini is well on his way to becoming one of the league’s future leaders.
