Celebrini debut with the Sharks, facing the challenges of an 82-game regular season.

Macklin Celebrini is poised and ready to make his highly anticipated NHL debut for the San Jose Sharks, having been immersed in the professional sports world from a young age. As the son of renowned physiotherapist Rick Celebrini, who has worked extensively with elite athletes in the NHL and NBA, Macklin has had a unique vantage point from which to observe and learn about the rigors of professional sports. From skating with Canucks players and shooting on NHL goaltender Mike Smith as a child, to watching his father work with NBA superstar Steve Nash, Macklin has had the invaluable experience of witnessing firsthand the dedication, discipline, and mental fortitude required to thrive at the highest levels of competition. This insider's perspective has undoubtedly shaped Macklin's own approach to the game, as he seeks to emulate the professionalism and work ethic he has seen modeled by the world-class athletes around him. Furthermore, Macklin has had the privilege of observing the journey of his close friend and fellow top draft pick, Connor Bedard, as the young phenom navigated the intense scrutiny and lofty expectations that come with being the first overall selection. By closely studying Bedard's poised and composed handling of the media and the demands of his rookie NHL season, Macklin has gleaned crucial insights that he can apply to his own transition to the big leagues. Now, as he prepares to make his NHL debut against the St. Louis Blues, Macklin Celebrini is armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience that sets him apart, ready to embrace the challenge and seize the moment, confident that he has the tools and mindset to thrive in the NHL's grueling 82-game grind.

He is an exceptional young man, Bedard remarked. He possesses a sound judgment and demonstrates considerable maturity, which will enable him to navigate challenges effectively. Celebrini had an impressive season at Boston University, accumulating 64 points (32 goals, 32 assists) over 38 games and earning the prestigious Hobey Baker Award as the top player in NCAA men's hockey during his freshman year. Recognizing the need to physically prepare for the demands of a full NHL schedule, he dedicated himself to rigorous training both in the gym and on the ice during the offseason. His skills were evident during a 10-day training session with elite NHL players at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan. Quinn Hughes, the previous season's Norris Trophy winner with the Vancouver Canucks, noted, "He is meticulous in his approach, whether in training or in utilizing his physicality. His maturity is remarkable for someone his age, and he possesses a high level of intelligence. I sought his insights and participated in one of his workouts, which left me quite sore. He is truly impressive."

The training group included Hughes' brothers—Jack, a center, and Luke, a defenseman for the New Jersey Devils—as well as forwards Alex DeBrincat and Dylan Larkin from the Detroit Red Wings, Adam Fantilli and Zach Werenski from the Columbus Blue Jackets, Cole Caufield from the Montreal Canadiens, Kyle Connor from the Winnipeg Jets, and Roman Josi from the Nashville Predators. The players engaged in numerous battle drills and scrimmages, including 2-on-2, 3-on-3, and 4-on-4 formats. "There were some outstanding players present, and 'Mack' truly excelled," Quinn Hughes commented. "He is poised for an excellent season." However, nothing compares to the experience of actual NHL competition. Bedard acknowledged that he encountered a learning curve, despite recording 61 points (22 goals, 39 assists) in 68 games.

"For me, it was about understanding what strategies would be effective on the ice," Bedard explained. "Each player is unique, and everyone has a different style of play. It took me some time to determine which passes I could execute and where I could position myself."