VANCOUVER, British Columbia — For Macklin Celebrini, the aspiration to play NHL hockey at Rogers Arena has been a childhood dream that is about to come true.
Set to take the ice on Monday night, the 18-year-old San Jose Sharks center expressed his excitement, reflecting on years spent imagining this moment. “Skating here when I was younger, I kind of tried to put myself in an NHL player’s shoes and pretend to be them. And now I’m practicing here and getting ready for the game tomorrow,” he stated. The anticipation feels surreal for Celebrini as he prepares for his first matchup against the Vancouver Canucks.
Celebrini, raised in North Vancouver, was selected first overall in the draft held last June and has made an impressive impact on the ice, currently boasting 11 goals and 12 assists across his initial 24 games. Playing against his hometown team marks a significant milestone in his promising young career. Growing up closely connected to the Canucks, the Celebrini family often frequented the rink, thanks to the involvement of Celebrini’s father, Rick, who worked in health sciences with the team.
“My brother and I would sneak into the family room between periods or after the game, hoping to catch a glimpse of our favorite players,” Celebrini recalled fondly. “I remember the time I saw Sid (Crosby) in the hallway, and we were just freaking out when we saw the Sedins walk by. Those memories are unforgettable.”
Despite his personal achievements, the Sharks find themselves struggling at the bottom of the Pacific Division standings. “There are ups and downs, mistakes, and learning curves. But overall, I feel good,” Celebrini remarked. He acknowledged the team’s recent challenges, stating, “It’s disappointing that we haven’t secured many wins lately. Nevertheless, we’ve been close to getting some of those victories.”
On game day, Celebrini will have an abundance of support in the stands, with family members including his parents and grandparents gathering to cheer him on. Rick Celebrini, who now serves as the director of sports medicine and performance for the Golden State Warriors, took a short break from the NBA season to witness his son’s game, inviting 50 to 60 of their family and friends to join them.
“I spent nearly 50 years in Vancouver, and my kids were born and raised here,” he said. “To now see Macklin practicing here and playing his hometown team is a full-circle moment. It’s one of those occasions where you pause and truly appreciate the journey that has led us here.”
