

© Charles LeClaire-Imagn ImagesWith the 2025 IIHF World Championships starting tomorrow, the NHLPA sat down with San Jose Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini.
Celebrini didn’t hesitate to talk about how excited he is to play alongside NHL superstar and future Hall-of-Famer Sidney Crosby.
He had this to say about playing with Crosby:
“It’s a dream come true,” said Celebrini. “He was an idol of mine growing up, and to get the opportunity to play with him is surreal.”
For any Canadian hockey player who grew up watching Crosby, it would be surreal. He’s been one of the generation’s greatest hockey players and a hero to so many after scoring the Golden Goal for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
The 18-year-old also spoke about being one of the first 15 members named to the team.
“Every time I get a chance to play for Canada, it’s hard to say no,” Celebrini told NHLPA.com. “It’s an amazing opportunity.”
This is his first time playing at the Worlds for Canada, and he hopes it’ll end with a gold medal.