Connor McDavid Praises Young Teammate Macklin Celebrini

The NHL superstar calls the 19-year-old Olympian "so, so impressive".

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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At the Winter Olympics in Milan, the Canadian men's hockey team features three generations of elite players - veteran Sidney Crosby, current NHL star Connor McDavid, and teenage phenom Macklin Celebrini. After their first game, McDavid had high praise for his young teammate, calling the 19-year-old "so, so impressive" and highlighting Celebrini's all-around game and work ethic.

Why it matters

The Canadian men's hockey team is looking to win Olympic gold, and the combination of veteran leadership from Crosby, superstar talent from McDavid, and rising young star power from Celebrini could make them the team to beat. McDavid's glowing endorsement of the teenage Celebrini also suggests the future of Canadian hockey is in good hands.

The details

In Canada's 5-0 opening win over Czechia, Crosby had two assists, McDavid had three points, and Celebrini scored the first goal for Canada with an assist from McDavid. After the game, McDavid was asked to share his thoughts on the 19-year-old Celebrini, who was a surprise addition to the Olympic roster after a standout sophomore season with the San Jose Sharks in the NHL.

  • The Canadian men's hockey team opened their Olympic campaign on February 13, 2026.
  • Macklin Celebrini, age 19, is making his Olympic debut in 2026.

The players

Connor McDavid

The 29-year-old captain of the Edmonton Oilers and considered the best hockey player in the world.

Macklin Celebrini

A 19-year-old rookie with the San Jose Sharks who has earned a spot on the Canadian Olympic hockey team.

Sidney Crosby

The 38-year-old Pittsburgh Penguins star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, considered one of the greatest hockey players of all time.

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What they’re saying

“I can't say enough good things about that kid. He's so, so impressive.”

— Connor McDavid (Newsweek)

What’s next

Team Canada plays their next Olympic game against Switzerland on February 14, 2026.

The takeaway

The combination of veteran leadership, current superstar talent, and rising young stars makes the Canadian men's hockey team the favorite to win Olympic gold in 2026. McDavid's glowing praise of 19-year-old teammate Macklin Celebrini suggests the future of Canadian hockey is in good hands.