Macklin Celebrini to Start Olympics on Line with Connor McDavid

The young San Jose Sharks prospect will play alongside the Canadian hockey superstar at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Macklin Celebrini, a rising star for the San Jose Sharks, will start the 2026 Winter Olympics playing on a line with Connor McDavid for Team Canada. Celebrini was also named to Canada's second power play unit, showcasing the high regard the coaching staff has for the young player. The 2026 Olympics mark Celebrini's first appearance on the international stage, and he is taking nothing for granted as he looks to help lead Canada to gold.

Why it matters

Celebrini's inclusion on Canada's top line and power play unit at just 19 years old is a testament to his immense talent and potential. Playing alongside generational talents like McDavid will provide invaluable experience as Celebrini continues to develop into an elite NHL player with the San Jose Sharks.

The details

During Team Canada's first practice on Sunday, Celebrini was slotted in on the top line with McDavid and Tom Wilson. The young Sharks forward also earned a spot on Canada's second power play unit, which features other NHL stars like Bo Horvat, Mitch Marner, Mark Stone, and Shea Theodore. Canada opens Olympic play on February 12th against Czechia.

  • Team Canada held their first practice on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • Canada opens Olympic play on February 12, 2026 at 7:40 AM PT vs. Czechia.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A 19-year-old prospect for the San Jose Sharks who will be making his Olympic debut for Team Canada.

Connor McDavid

The superstar captain of the Canadian men's hockey team and one of the best players in the NHL.

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What they’re saying

“Macklin Celebrini is taking nothing for granted in his first shot at Olympic glory with @hockeycanada – including his first chance to play alongside Connor McDavid.”

— NHLPA (Twitter)

“I look at the box scores every day… he was hanging around here as a 14-year-old kid and now all of the sudden he's in the MVP race in the NHL.”

— Steve Kerr (KNBR)

What’s next

Canada starts play at the 2026 Winter Olympics on February 12th against Czechia.

The takeaway

Macklin Celebrini's inclusion on Canada's top line and power play unit at the Olympics is a remarkable achievement for the young San Jose Sharks prospect, showcasing his immense talent and potential on the international stage alongside the best hockey players in the world.