(San Jose) No. 1 overall draft pick Macklin Celebrini took part in his first official practice with the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, bringing a breath of fresh air to an organization that has struggled in recent years.
Celebrini delivered the goods in his first intrasquad game, scoring a goal and creating several scoring chances.
“It’s the same game I’ve been playing since I was young,” Celebrini said. “It’s just about having fun and enjoying it.”
The 18-year-old center played on the same line as Tyler Toffoli, who admitted that Celebrini was a big reason he came to San Jose.
That’s despite the Sharks not having made the playoffs since 2019 and having the worst record in the NHL last year.
Toffoli added that playing with Celebrini was rather simple.
“It was obviously special,” he said. “It was the first day of camp and he was flying around the ice. He was one of the best on the ice. He wants to be the best on the ice, every day. He did that today.”
A worrying absence
The absence of captain Logan Couture is, however, worrying since we do not know when he will be able to return to the ice.
He remains bothered by a groin injury, which caused him to miss 76 games last season.
The 35-year-old veteran is just hoping he can get back into shape and skate again.
“It’s been tough mentally the last 15 or 16 months,” Couture admitted. “There’s been a lot of ups and downs. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to live with it a little bit.”
“I haven’t skated since January 31 (against the Anaheim Ducks) and there are no plans regarding a possible return to the ice.”
General manager Mike Grier said Couture will start the season on long-term injured reserve, but will continue to contribute as captain.
“It’s a situation we can’t control,” he said. “When his body allows him to play again, he’ll be back. He’s doing everything he can to come back and help the group.”