(San Jose) Macklin Celebrini knows he has a big decision ahead of him.
The No. 1 overall pick in the NHL draft made his debut with the Sharks on Tuesday at the team’s development camp.
It remains to be seen whether he will play for San Jose or return to Boston University, for what would be a second season with them.
“It’s coming,” Celebrini said of his decision. “I’m just trying to enjoy camp and then I guess it’ll be time to make a decision.”
“It’s a lot of fun to be here. It’s been a long process, but here you can play hockey and just have fun with the guys.”
The 18-year-old impressed with effortless skating, masterful stickhandling and a lightning-quick shot.
“He was super competitive when it came to getting the puck,” said John McCarthy, head coach of the Sharks’ AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda. ”That’s what we noticed the most.”
After practice, the British Columbian spent several minutes signing autographs for fans.
“It’s nice to be wanted,” he said. “It feels good. From everything I’ve heard, the Sharks fans are some of the best in the league. I’m excited to get started playing for them.”
Celebrini had 32 goals and 64 points in 38 games for BU last season. He became the youngest winner of the Hobey Baker Trophy, given to the NCAA’s top hockey player.
The Sharks made him the first overall pick in the draft in Las Vegas last Friday.
“He’s mature,” McCarthy said. “I know a lot of people [à l’Université de Boston]and talking to them, as impressive as he is as a player, they’re just as impressed with the individual that he is.”
“The way he carries himself, the way he handles his business, it’s top-of-the-line. That’s why he was chosen first.”
The Sharks are counting on Celebrini to provide new momentum after a very disappointing 2023-24 season.
San Jose finished with the worst record in the NHL (19-54-9 for 47 points, the team’s worst performance since 1995-96).
“We’re on the right track,” Celebrini said. “A lot of players are getting ready for a fresh start with the Sharks. It’s an exciting time.”
The camp will continue on Wednesday before ending on Thursday with the presentation of an intra-squad game.