Sharks Macklin Celebrini breaks silence on earning Team Canada roster spot

Published: Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 4:50 am

Celebrini to Represent Canada at 2026 Winter Olympics

San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini will represent Team Canada at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. The announcement comes as the NHL prepares to send its players to compete for a gold medal in February.

Celebrini, in his second season, has demonstrated remarkable improvement. Entering Wednesday's game, he had accumulated 21 goals and 60 points in 39 games, positioning him among the league's top scorers. His performance has generated buzz, with some analysts suggesting he is a strong contender for the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL's most valuable player.

Following a New Year's Eve shootout victory against the Minnesota Wild, Celebrini expressed his excitement about being selected for Team Canada. He acknowledged the challenge of refocusing on the game after the announcement. Celebrini then went on to score a goal and add an assist in the game, bringing his season totals to 22 goals and 62 points in 40 games. He also scored in the shootout, contributing to the Sharks' win.

The San Jose Sharks, while still refining their gameplay, are currently in fourth place in the Pacific Division and hold the top Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Celebrini's performance has been a key factor in the team's push for a playoff berth. The Sharks will begin the 2026 portion of their schedule on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

BNN's Perspective:

Celebrini's inclusion on Team Canada is a testament to his rapid development and potential. While the Sharks are still a work in progress, his performance provides a significant boost to both the team and the Canadian Olympic team. It will be exciting to watch him compete on the international stage.

Keywords: Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks, Team Canada, Winter Olympics, NHL, Hockey, Milan, Italy, Hart Memorial Trophy, Playoffs, Goals, Assists, Points, Minnesota Wild, Tampa Bay Lightning, Pacific Division, Western Conference, Hockey News

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