Sharks Star Rookie Will Provide Boost in Return

It shouldn't take long for the San Jose Sharks to feel a boost when their star rookie returns to the lineup.

Oct 10, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini (71) chases after the puck during the second period against the St. Louis Blues at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images / Stan Szeto-Imagn Images

The San Jose Sharks didn’t have high expectations for the 2024-25 season, and it shows with the lack of success through the first month of the season. In 13 games played, the Sharks hold a 3-8-2 record and are dead last in the NHL.

While they might not get much better as the year goes on, there is a chance a key rookie helps bring a little bit of momentum to the Sharks season. Recent first overall pick Macklin Celebrini played in the Sharks first game of the season before missing the next 12 with a lower-body injury.

In that one game, the Sharks lost 5-4 in overtime, but Celebrini scored a goal and an assist in the opening period. With two points in just one game, he didn’t take long showing how bright the future may be in San Jose.

Celebrini said he’s ready to return to the Sharks lineup, and that should provide a huge boost in confidence and morale around the team. Even with Celebrini in the lineup, the Sharks aren’t expected to make waves or fight for a playoff spot, but they can at least get back to enjoying a fabulous rookie season from their future superstar.

Macklin Celebrini says he’s playing tomorrow #SJSharks

— Max Miller (@Real_Max_Miller) November 4, 2024

The Sharks started the season 0-7-2 before securing their first win of the year. Each of their first three wins came in a row against the Utah Hockey Club, Los Angeles Kings, and Chicago Blackhawks.

Celebrini is set to return against the Columbus Blue Jackets who are off to a decent start but were the worst team in the Eastern Conference last season. Neither the Sharks or Blue Jackets are expected to have huge seasons, and that should open the door for a huge return to the lineup for Celebrini.

It might not take long for one of the NHL’s top rookies to step up and make noise after missing nearly a month of the season.

Make sure you bookmark Breakaway OnSI for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage, and more! 

• Jets Have Put NHL on Notice
• Fact or Fiction: Debunking NHL Trade Rumors
• Team Finland Roster Prediction: 4 Nations Face-Off
• Oilers Trade Flyers for Young Defenseman
• Bruins Sign Stanley Cup Champion to Contract