San Jose Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini Scores 1st Career Goal – Hockey Writers – NHL News

The top pick of the 2024 NHL Draft scored his first memorable goal just 7:01 into his NHL debut. Macklin Celebrini received a spin pass off an opposing skate and into the net to give the San Jose Sharks a 1-0 lead against the St. Louis Blues. Although it was perhaps an unpleasant goal, it was not an unpleasant time.

ARE YOU PLAYING?!!! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/kZ2h2SwWab

– San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) October 11, 2024

Celebrini was dominant at the collegiate level in 2023-24, becoming the fourth player in history to win the Hobey Baker Award as the best player in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Scoring 64 points in 38 games as a strong two-way presence, he was the clear pick to take first in his draft class. The Sharks are very happy to have selected him, and the reason for that was evident in his first game.

After finishing with 47 points, their worst 82-game streak in the 21st century, the Sharks are not expected to be good in 2024-25. But that doesn’t mean they can’t entertain. Among other young, talented forwards, Celebrini makes this team even more attractive than a few months ago. San Jose may not be raising the banner, but they should be the team to follow.