The Sharks could have a franchise-changing player on their roster if they secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft Lottery, and select Macklin Celebrini. Celebrini, son of Warriors director of sports medicine and performance Rick Celebrini, is a top prospect with a great sense of humor that would add to the locker room’s camaraderie.
Recently, ESPN’s Emily Kaplan shared an anecdote involving Draymond Green and a group of Warriors players and coaches who traveled to watch Macklin play junior hockey for the Chicago Steel in January 2023. Despite the 40-mile drive from United Center to Geneva, Illinois, the group left after the second period, missing Macklin’s goal in a 4-2 loss to Madison Capitols. The following day, Macklin joked to his father about finding his games boring and never leaving early like Green’s group did. This sparked laughter in the Warriors’ locker room and showcased their camaraderie over lighthearted situations.
Green recognized the opportunity to witness a potential future star in action and compared it to seeing Sidney Crosby at 17, emphasizing its rarity in the sports world. As they continue their search for game-changing talent, Celebrini represents what the Sharks have been looking for: a young prospect who could contribute significantly to their success in San Jose Bay Area.
If chosen as number one overall pick in 2024 NHL Draft Lottery, Celebrini will join Sharks alongside Green and other notable players that make them one of most successful teams in NHL history.
