The San Jose Sharks' general manager, Mike Grier, might have unintentionally exposed who the team is selecting first overall yesterday at a media availability.
With a 19-54-9 record, the San Jose Sharks finished dead last in the NHL after a terrible 2023–24 season. The Sharks have the best chance of obtaining the first overall pick with this outcome. The Sharks were awarded the privilege to choose first after the draft lottery balls fell in their favor. Mike Grier, the general manager of San Jose, seems to be focused on the decision made by the team.
According to conversation Sheng Peng of San Jose Hockey Now had with Sharks general manager Mike Grier, the team already has plans in place with Macklin Celebrini. Grier's discussion on Celebrini is not unexpected given that he is the clear favorite on all mock draft lottery boards. The candor Grier is displaying regarding his decision is unexpected.
Celebrin, eighteen, had a terrific debut season at Boston University. He scored 32 goals and 64 points in 38 games. Celebrini won the Hockey East Rookie of the Year, Player of the Year, and First All-Star Team awards for his season. He participated in the 2023 Under-18 World Championships for Team Canada, scoring 15 points in 7 games to win a bronze medal.
Celebrini seems prepared to jump immediately into the NHL the next season. Should he be chosen, he might contribute to the Sharks' offensive, which came in second last in the league.
