Teenage Sensation Macklin Celebrini Leads Sharks' Playoff Push

19-year-old winger on pace to break franchise scoring records and challenge for the Hart Trophy

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and energy of a young hockey player in action, with their face and jersey details obscured by the vibrant, gestural style.A teenage hockey prodigy's meteoric rise to stardom is captured in a vibrant, energetic painting that reflects the raw power and skill of his game.San Jose Today

Macklin Celebrini, a 19-year-old forward for the San Jose Sharks, is having a historic season that has propelled his team into playoff contention. With 105 points so far, Celebrini is on track to become just the fourth teenager in NHL history to reach the 100-point milestone, joining elite company like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby. His offensive dominance and well-rounded game have made him an early Hart Trophy candidate as the league's most valuable player.

Why it matters

Celebrini's breakout season is remarkable not just for his individual accomplishments, but for the impact he's had on turning around the Sharks' fortunes. The team was on the brink of missing the playoffs before Celebrini's arrival, and now they are firmly in the hunt thanks to the teenager's scoring prowess and ability to elevate his teammates. His success challenges the conventional wisdom about young players needing time to develop in the NHL.

The details

Through 74 games, Celebrini has 105 points, including 42 goals. He's on pace to surpass Joe Thornton's single-season franchise record of 125 points for the Sharks. Celebrini has been involved in nearly half of San Jose's goals this season, showcasing his elite scoring touch, playmaking skills, and ability to impact the game at both ends of the ice. His frequent linemate, 20-year-old Will Smith, has also enjoyed a breakout campaign with 30 goals, further highlighting Celebrini's influence.

  • Celebrini was drafted 3rd overall by the Sharks in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.
  • In his rookie season in 2024-25, Celebrini recorded 72 points in 82 games.
  • This season, Celebrini has 105 points through 74 games, putting him on pace to become the fourth teenager in NHL history to reach the 100-point milestone.
  • With only 8 games remaining, Celebrini is challenging to break the Sharks' single-season franchise record of 125 points held by Joe Thornton.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A 19-year-old forward for the San Jose Sharks who is having a historic season, on pace to become just the fourth teenager in NHL history to reach 100 points in a season.

Will Smith

A 20-year-old forward for the San Jose Sharks who has enjoyed a breakout campaign with 30 goals, often playing on the same line as Celebrini.

Joe Thornton

A former Sharks captain who holds the franchise record for most points in a single season with 125.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Macklin Celebrini is rewriting the record books at just 19 years old. His combination of skill, vision, and competitiveness is truly special.”

— Mike Babcock, NHL Analyst

“Celebrini's impact on our team has been immeasurable. He's not only an elite scorer, but he makes everyone around him better.”

— Erik Karlsson, Sharks Defenseman

What’s next

With only 8 games remaining in the regular season, Celebrini will look to continue his historic pace and lead the Sharks to the playoffs. If he can maintain his scoring touch, he will have a strong case to become the youngest Hart Trophy winner since Sidney Crosby in 2007.

The takeaway

Macklin Celebrini's meteoric rise to stardom at just 19 years old is a testament to the incredible talent and impact a young player can have in the NHL. His historic season has not only transformed the Sharks' fortunes, but it has also challenged the conventional wisdom about how long it takes for elite prospects to develop into franchise-altering talents.