Celebrini Adds to Canada's Generational Talent at Olympics

19-year-old Sharks forward thriving alongside McDavid on Olympic stage

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Macklin Celebrini, the 19-year-old San Jose Sharks forward, has been a standout performer for Canada at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. Celebrini is tied for the second-most points in the tournament (6 in 3 games) and leads all teenagers in goals and points, showcasing his elite offensive skills while playing alongside NHL superstars Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon.

Why it matters

Celebrini's breakout performance at the Olympics further cements Canada's status as a hockey powerhouse, with a new generation of elite talent emerging to complement established stars like McDavid and MacKinnon. His success could also boost the Sharks' playoff hopes as he returns to the NHL season.

The details

In Canada's 10-2 win over France, Celebrini scored two goals and added an assist, becoming the first NHL player to ever score a penalty shot goal at the Olympics. He has seen significant ice time alongside McDavid and MacKinnon, who are first and second in NHL scoring this season. Celebrini ranks fourth in the NHL in points (81 in 55 games), third in assists (53), and third in even-strength points (57).

  • Celebrini scored 3 points (2 goals, 1 assist) in Canada's 10-2 win over France on February 15, 2026.
  • Celebrini is tied for the second-most points in the 2026 Olympics (6 in 3 games).
  • Celebrini has already tied Evgeni Malkin (2006) for the most points by a teenager in an Olympic tournament with NHL players.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A 19-year-old forward for the San Jose Sharks who is showcasing elite offensive skills at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Connor McDavid

The Edmonton Oilers superstar who leads the NHL in scoring this season and has been a frequent linemate of Celebrini's at the Olympics.

Nathan MacKinnon

The Colorado Avalanche star who is second in NHL scoring this season and has also played on a line with Celebrini and McDavid at the Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“Macklin Celebrini has shown all the signs of being a superstar for the San Jose Sharks in the NHL and is adding to Canada's generational talent at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.”

— Fantasy Hockey Staff (nhl.com)

What’s next

Celebrini will look to continue his strong play as Canada advances deeper into the Olympic tournament, with the potential to lead his country to a gold medal.

The takeaway

Celebrini's breakout performance at the Olympics showcases the depth of Canada's hockey talent, with a new generation of stars emerging to complement established NHL superstars. His success could be a harbinger of great things to come for the San Jose Sharks as he returns to the NHL season.