Sharks' Celebrini Emerges as Hart Trophy Contender, Says Bedard

Blackhawks' Bedard believes Celebrini's impact on Sharks' success makes him a strong candidate for NHL's MVP award.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:54pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in progress, with players and the puck represented through sharp, overlapping shapes in a vibrant color palette, conveying the energy and complexity of Macklin Celebrini's standout season.Celebrini's dynamic play style and impact on the Sharks' success are captured in a Cubist-inspired illustration, reflecting the multi-faceted nature of his Hart Trophy candidacy.Chicago Today

The NHL's Hart Trophy race has intensified this season, with Sharks center Macklin Celebrini emerging as a strong contender according to Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard. Bedard praised Celebrini's exceptional performance and impact on the Sharks' success, which has the team in playoff contention despite past struggles.

Why it matters

The Hart Trophy is the NHL's most prestigious individual award, honoring the league's most valuable player. Celebrini's potential candidacy highlights his standout season and the Sharks' resurgence, which could earn him recognition as one of the NHL's elite players.

The details

Celebrini leads the NHL in scoring with 106 points this season, showcasing his offensive prowess. While he may not surpass top contenders like Connor McDavid or Nathan MacKinnon, Bedard believes Celebrini's influence on the Sharks' performance is undeniable, with the team posting a 2-15-3 record when he doesn't contribute a goal or assist.

  • As of the latest update, Celebrini leads the NHL in scoring with 106 points.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A center for the San Jose Sharks who has emerged as a strong contender for the NHL's Hart Trophy this season.

Connor Bedard

A center for the Chicago Blackhawks who believes Celebrini's impact on the Sharks' success makes him a compelling Hart Trophy candidate.

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What they’re saying

“Celebrini's exceptional performance this season is evident in his scoring prowess. As of the latest update, he leads the NHL in scoring with 106 points, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly to the Sharks' offensive success.”

— Connor Bedard, Chicago Blackhawks center

What’s next

As the regular season winds down, the Hart Trophy conversation will continue to evolve. Celebrini's strong case, combined with the Sharks' playoff aspirations, makes him a front-runner for the award. The NHL world will be watching to see if he can secure the Hart Trophy, solidifying his status as one of the league's most valuable players.

The takeaway

Celebrini's potential Hart Trophy candidacy highlights the importance of individual impact on a team's success, even in a league with many talented players. His exceptional performance this season has been a key factor in the Sharks' resurgence, and his recognition as one of the NHL's most valuable players would be a testament to his skill and leadership.