Oilers’ McDavid Praises Celebrini Before Sharks Showdown
In a recent NHL matchup, Conor McDavid praised rising star Will Celebrini ahead of an impending game against the San Jose Sharks. Celebrini, currently a standout rookie, has made significant contributions to his team’s performance this season.
Celebrini’s Impressive Records
Will Celebrini ranks fourth in the NHL with 78 points, comprising 27 goals and 51 assists over 51 games. In his latest outing, he helped the Sharks secure a 5-2 victory against the Vancouver Canucks, recording one goal and three assists. Over his last two games alone, he has garnered six points—three goals and three assists.
- Points this season: 78 (27 Goals, 51 Assists)
- Recent performance: 1 Goal, 3 Assists against Vancouver
- Two-game points total: 6 (3 Goals, 3 Assists)
Sharks’ Playoff Aspirations
San Jose is looking to secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the 2018-19 season. With a record of 27-21-3, they are currently tied with the Los Angeles Kings and Seattle Kraken for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference. They trail the Anaheim Ducks, who sit just two points ahead in third place in the Pacific Division.
Shared Journey of Top Picks
Celebrini was selected first overall by the Sharks in the 2024 NHL Draft. Last season, he finished with 63 points from 25 goals and 38 assists in 70 games. He was a finalist for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top rookie.
Conor McDavid, who leads the NHL with 92 points in 54 games, highlighted Celebrini’s impressive play, noting his dedication and ability to compete at a high level, reminiscent of both McDavid’s and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins’ early careers.
McDavid’s Thoughts on Celebrini
“He’s driven and plays hard,” McDavid commented. “He does all the little things a veteran does, and it’s been impressive.” McDavid was also the first overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft and has achieved remarkable success since.
Nugent-Hopkins’ Insights
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who was the first overall pick in 2011, also weighed in on Celebrini’s rapid development. “I’ve seen him evolve into the player he is at this point, so fast,” Nugent-Hopkins said. He recognizes the challenge of making an immediate impact in the NHL as a young player, remarking on the physical and mental demands of competing against seasoned professionals.
“Competing against bigger guys every night is tough,” he added. “You have to think the game well to succeed quickly.” Celebrini’s current performance demonstrates that he has embraced these challenges with skill and poise, marking him as a player to watch in the coming years.
