San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini (71) reacts after he received a delay of game penalty during the third period against the Vancouver Canucks at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn ImagesWith the San Jose Sharks far from the Stanley Cup Playoffs, many players will have a chance to play at the 2025 IIHF World Hockey Championships.
2024 NHL Draft No. 1 pick Macklin Celebrini told reporters in Montreal that he would be interested in playing for Team Canada this summer.
Latest On THN's San Jose Sharks site
Celebrini was a controversial topic surrounding Canada's 4 Nations Face-Off roster, but didn't make the cut. The rookie was also originally on Canada's 2024 Worlds roster but did not play due to Hockey Canada adding more established NHL players.
With the 2026 Winter Olympics right around the corner, playing for Team Canada at Worlds could be an open tryout for him to make the team. The Hockey Canada organizations will get a hands-on look at the rookie phenom.
Celebrini's 200-foot-complete style of play resembles that of Sidney Crosby, his idol. Playing for Canada would also give Celebrini some experience playing for a trophy for his home nation.
The San Jose Sharks will likely be involved in the decision, as the team has emphasized not overworking the rookie this season. Fellow rookie Will Smith had development days early in the season when he would be a healthy scratch.
While Celebrini hasn't had those, the coaching staff, although jokingly, has said they need to pull the No. 1 pick off the ice at times to give him some extra rest.
Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard, a Vancouver native like Celebrini, could play for Canada at Worlds for the second straight season. Although Bedard and Celebrini worked out together in the summer, they have yet to be seen on the same team.
The 2025 IIHF World Championship will occur from May 9 to May 25 in Sweden and Denmark.
Stay updated with the most interesting Sharks stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
Follow Max on Twitter: @Real_Max_Miller