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On Saturday, the San Jose Sharks and Macklin Celebrini reached an agreement on a three-year entry-level contract.

After completing the San Jose prospect development camp, the Sharks’ No. 1 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, an 18-year-old center, announced his choice to forego returning to Boston University and instead pursue a professional career. This decision was made on Friday.

Celebrini mentioned that it had been on his mind ever since the draft and had always been a lingering thought. As the week progressed and he interacted with everyone, he gained insight into what the upcoming year would entail and the various responsibilities that would come with it. Conversations with some of his peers ultimately led him to comprehend what actions he needed to take and the choice he had to make.

I made an effort to keep all possibilities open until the end of the week, specifically Friday. However, after my exit meetings, as soon as I returned to the hotel, a realization hit me. It was at that moment when I truly comprehended what I needed to do. Excitement overwhelmed me whenever I pondered joining the Sharks.

According to general manager Mike Grier, it is evident that Celebrini is prepared for the NHL based on his performance. Despite being the youngest player in NCAA hockey last season, Celebrini achieved impressive stats, ranking third among all players with 64 points (32 goals, 32 assists) in 38 games during his freshman year at Boston University. Additionally, he was honored with the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the best men’s player in NCAA ice hockey.

However, Grier saw Celebrini as a person prepared for the NHL outside of the ice.

According to Grier, our interview and dinner with him at the NHL Scouting Combine played a crucial role in solidifying our decision. It was during this encounter that he demonstrated a remarkably mature attitude, displaying immense determination, passion, and a strong desire to excel in the League. Being in the presence of such individuals, one cannot help but acknowledge their exceptional qualities, and he possesses that alpha mentality which convinced us that he is fully prepared to navigate the challenges and demands of an NHL season.

Grier mentioned that he has encountered the “alpha mentality” on limited occasions during his NHL career, both on and off the ice. He specifically named Doug Weight, Jaromir Jagr, Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski, Jack Hughes (during his coaching tenure with the New Jersey Devils), and Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews (whom he collaborated with as a Chicago pro scout) as individuals who possess this mindset.

“These individuals I’ve encountered could be considered the alphas, and Macklin possesses a similar determination to excel. He firmly believes that when he sets foot on the ice, he won’t let anyone surpass him. Grier mentioned that Macklin consistently puts in effort, continuously pushes himself, and motivates his teammates. Grier believes that Macklin possesses an exceptional drive that sets him apart.”

According to Celebrini, he has had this mentality for as long as he can recall.

He stated, “My desire is to reach my maximum potential and contribute to the success of my team. It is essential for me to dedicate myself to constant improvement and thorough preparation, as this allows me to be a dependable asset during crucial moments. From a young age, my goal has always been to continually strive for excellence.”

We've been waiting for this ONE #TheFutureIsTeal

— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) July 6, 2024

Finishing last in the NHL last season, the Sharks acquired the coveted No. 1 pick for the first time, which has raised the bar for Celebrini. However, Grier is optimistic about San Jose’s offseason acquisitions, such as securing forwards Tyler Toffoli and Alexander Wennberg, as well as claiming Barclay Goodrow, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, off waivers from the New York Rangers. These moves are expected to establish a solid foundation for Celebrini both on and off the ice.

Grier mentioned that the objective is to prevent overwhelming him and Will [Smith, the No. 4 pick of the 2023 NHL Draft]. The plan is to shield them from feeling the immense pressure to perform consistently every night. We will allow [Celebrini] to find his own path, anticipating that there may be challenges and successes along the way. However, we hope to have a sufficient number of experienced players to guide and support him throughout his journey.

I don’t have high expectations for him to become the League’s MVP or anything like that. We anticipate there will be challenges and highs and lows, but I believe he will handle them well, and we will support him through it all.

Celebrini stated that he will take a brief break from the rink, but he won’t delay in getting ready for training camp in September and the beginning of the season, which starts against the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 10.

He stated that as I conversed with various individuals, it became evident that competing against adult men has led to continuous growth and improvement. The journey entails becoming stronger, larger, and faster, while also developing the skill of self-defense and the ability to distinguish oneself when necessary. The key is to persistently enhance one’s strength.

San Jose is already buzzing with excitement due to Celebrini’s presence.

Grier expressed his enthusiasm, stating that it is beneficial for both the players in the room and the fans. He shared that there is a noticeable buzz, which was evident during the prospects scrimmage. Grier believes that both the young players and the veterans recognize Macklin’s exceptional talent and are excited about the opportunity to play alongside him. The arrival of Macklin this year has generated excitement among all the players.