Macklin Celebrini: From Canucks Fan to Shark Attacker

Vancouver’s own Macklin Celebrini is making waves in the NHL, and this Monday, he’s coming back to Rogers Arena— this time, wearing a San Jose Sharks jersey. The 2024 first-overall pick, who once cheered on the Canucks from the stands, is now facing his hometown team, marking a remarkable journey.

Celebrini’s ties to Vancouver run deep. Growing up, he spent countless hours at Rogers Arena, skating on the ice and hanging out in the family room with his brother. Now, he’s returning as a seasoned NHL rookie, ready to showcase his skills against the team he once idolized.

“Pretty surreal,” Celebrini admitted after Sunday’s practice. “Skating here when I was younger, trying to put myself in like an NHL player situation and pretend to be them, and now [I] get to practice here and get ready for the game tomorrow.
I think every time I was here, I’d want to skate and kind of get on that ice, just because the NHL has always been a dream of mine. To do that as a kid was pretty cool, and tomorrow’s going to be pretty cool as well.”

Since joining the Sharks, Celebrini has become one of the league’s brightest young stars. He’s third in rookie scoring with 11 goals and 12 assists in 24 games, leading all rookies in points-per-game (.958). Playing alongside veteran Tyler Toffoli, Celebrini has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with.

Canucks Head Coach Rick Tocchet recognizes Celebrini’s talent, stating, “I mean, he’s 18. I mean, the kid’s a player. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

While Celebrini embraces the challenge, he acknowledges the demands of the NHL season. “It’s been good. I mean, I’ve had a lot of vets, we have an amazing group of leaders in that room. We have an awesome staff that helps us with that, but it is tough to get up every day and perform.”

Celebrini’s return to Vancouver promises to be an emotional moment. Although facing a tough Canucks team, he’s eager to showcase his skills in front of friends and family, especially his brother, Aiden, who plays for Boston University.

“I remember I saw Sid [Sidney Crosby] in the hallway, and me and my brother were kind of freaking out. We saw the scenes walking by and stuff. I mean, those are the memories that kind of stick with you. This is my hometown. So, [it means] a lot.”

Don’t miss this exciting matchup! Will Celebrini shine in his hometown debut? Tune in Monday night to witness this budding superstar’s journey unfold.