Macklin Celebrini’s 2025 World Championship experience marked a significant milestone in his burgeoning hockey career. At 18 years old, Celebrini represented Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, showcasing his skills among some of the NHL’s elite, while earning valuable lessons that will benefit both his future and the San Jose Sharks.
Playing Alongside Hockey’s Top Talent
Despite being a natural center, Celebrini adapted to a wing position due to Canada’s deep roster filled with centers. This shift provided a unique opportunity for him to share the ice with legendary players like Sidney Crosby. Together, they contributed to multiple goals, forming an effective partnership and even sharing moments of camaraderie off the ice.
As one of the youngest players on the team, Celebrini valued the chance to observe and engage with veterans he looks up to, including Nathan MacKinnon. Experiencing the pace and professionalism of these stars gave him insight into the dedication required at the highest levels of hockey.
It’s just being around them. Playing with them. Going to dinner with them. Everything. I think playing with some of the best players in the world and getting to learn from them and talk to them and watch how they approach the game and do things … that’s something I don’t take for granted.
—Macklin Celebrini, Forward
Celebrini demonstrated a maturity beyond his years, showing confidence and making smart decisions offensively while competing fiercely on defense. His plus-9 rating in eight games highlighted his positive impact throughout the tournament—as well as his ability to keep pace with seasoned NHL veterans.
When asked about advice for Celebrini, both Crosby and MacKinnon praised his readiness and professionalism instead of offering instructions.
I don’t really have much advice,
Crosby shared.
He’s handled it pretty well. He’s mature. He loves the game. Loves to compete. He cares about every facet of the game on both sides of the puck. With experience, obviously everything gets a little bit easier. You can’t really fast-track that. I think he’s on the right track. He probably doesn’t need to hear too much from me.
—Sidney Crosby, NHL Veteran
I have no advice for him,
MacKinnon added.
He’s a pro. He is miles ahead of where I was at 18, mentally … he’s a great kid. He’s dominating. He’s standing out with a lot of older players. I think with a good first half, he’s going to have a really good chance at the Olympic team. Really impressed with him. He’s amazing. He is so mature for an 18-year-old, such a great attitude. Super happy. I can tell how hard he works. He has a bright future.
—Nathan MacKinnon, NHL Forward
This recognition from two Stanley Cup champions confirms Celebrini’s potential as a player destined for a significant role in the NHL, providing both validation and a platform to continue developing.
Building Resilience Through High-Pressure Matches
Beyond mentorship, Celebrini gained crucial experience competing in pressure-filled games throughout the World Championship. Unlike his rookie season with limited meaningful contests, this tournament simulated a playoff-like atmosphere that challenged him to elevate his game.
Facing opponents from various top leagues, including a tough quarterfinal defeat to Denmark, Celebrini encountered the intensity of international competition. Such experiences help foster mental toughness essential for future playoff success, giving him a taste of the challenges that lie ahead in the NHL’s postseason.
Celebrini’s World Championship participation also paralleled similar opportunities for other San Jose Sharks players like Will Smith and head coach Ryan Warsofsky, who represented Team USA. All gained valuable lessons that could enhance the Sharks’ playoff readiness moving forward.
Implications for the San Jose Sharks’ Future Ambitions
Celebrini’s performance at the 2025 World Championship proved his ability to contribute in critical games alongside, and against, the world’s best players, many of whom are more experienced. The Sharks view these accomplishments as foundational to their goals of returning to playoff contention with Celebrini as a core figure.
San Jose has taken meaningful steps to surround Celebrini with a competitive roster, but much work remains in the upcoming offseason. Should both the player and franchise maintain their developmental momentum, Celebrini’s World Championship experience will translate into impactful postseason performances for the Sharks within the next few seasons.
His journey from a stand-out rookie to a player earning accolades on the international stage reflects both the promise of his individual career and the hope he brings to a franchise eager to build championship-caliber success.