San Jose Sharks Sign Macklin Celebrini to Entry-Level Contract – Hockey Writers – San Jose Sharks

A few days removed from San Jose Sharks development camp, general manager Mike Grier is on the move again. The Sharks announced Saturday afternoon that they have signed the first pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, Macklin Celebrini, to an entry-level contract.

Turning Professional

There was lingering doubt as to whether Celebrini would sign immediately or return to the Boston University Terriers for another year at the NCAA level. Finally, he decided he was ready to join the NHL and signed his three-year contract.

The former Boston University standout was the consensus first pick heading into the NHL Draft, and the Sharks didn’t shy away from that either. The 6-foot, 196-pound center will need to mature a bit to be fully comfortable at the professional level, but it’s clear he has plenty of talent and could quickly become one of the Sharks’ most dangerous goals. .

To stand out in the field of development

The annual development camp that all NHL teams participate in isn’t much of a measuring stick for talent, as most are there to allow players to meet and get used to each other on the ice. That being said, Celebrini’s impact in Thursday afternoon’s scrimmage was very evident. At one point, his team trailed 7-2 with limited time remaining. Celebrini took over at that point and dished out three assists in a row and they would eventually find a way to tie it. His team ended up losing on penalties, but it was clear that he could put the team on his shoulders if necessary, which the Sharks will definitely need in the next few seasons.

Related: San Jose Sharks Sign Tyler Toffoli to 4-Year Deal

Celebrini’s decision to join the Sharks for the 2024-25 season will make for some can’t-miss games, something the organization sorely lacked last season. Now, it’s time to see how his game transitions to the professional level. Still, there is reason to be happy in San Jose.