FILE - Boston University’s Macklin Celebrini skates with the puck in front of Rochester’s Elijah Gonsalves during an NCAA men’s college hockey tournament regional game March 28, 2024, in Sioux Falls, S.D. Celebrini has a pretty good idea his NHL future lies with the San Jose Sharks, who hold the first pick in the draft. For now, the 17-year-old center coming off a celebrated freshman season at Boston University isn’t in a rush to get there, yet. BUFFALO, N.Y.
Other than who gets chosen second overall, with the consensus split between Michigan State defenseman Artyom Levshunov and Medicine Hat center Cayden Lindstrom, Celebrini’s plans for next season represent the biggest question mark entering the two-day draft, which opens on June 28 at The Sphere in Las Vegas.
Another bonus for Grier’s rebuilding plans for a team that finished last in the overall standings is Celebrini’s ties to the Bay Area. Though from North Vancouver, British Columbia, Celebrini’s father, Rick, is vice president of player health and performance for the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, and the youngster spent a year playing for the Sharks’ junior team.
“I was obviously very fortunate to be on two really good teams and meet a lot of great guys,” said the 6-foot, 183-pound Buium. “It was two awesome experiences.”