Sharks rookie Celebrini’s first multi-goal game rooted in symbolism originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Sometimes sports offer us poetic moments, delivering a distinct symbolism that transcends the present with a big-picture view.
Sharks No. 1 overall draft pick Macklin Celebrini recorded his first career NHL multi-goal game in San Jose’s 5-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild on Thursday at SAP Center, doing so against a legendary goaltender who is destined for the Hall of Fame.
Celebrini, 18, is the NHL’s youngest player, while Marc-André Fleury, who the rookie scored on twice Thursday, is the league’s eldest statesman as his 40th birthday looms at the end of the month. It almost felt emblematic of every sports movie you’ve ever seen, with the star of an older generation welcoming the challenge of an up-and-coming player tasked with playing a pivotal role in ushering in a new era.
The youngest player in the NHL, Macklin Celebrini (only 2006-born player), just scored on the oldest player in the NHL, Marc-Andre Fleury (only 1984-born player). 🤯 https://t.co/vOn1gc3aCr
— NHL (@NHL) November 8, 2024
While Celebrini’s postgame focus remained on the lack of team success, the rookie also appreciated the opportunity to face the legendary Fleury in what is expected to be the 21-year NHL veteran’s final season.
“I mean, he’s been in the league longer than I’ve been alive I think,” Celebrini told reporters. ” It’s been amazing to watch his career. Obviously the runs he had with Pittsburgh, Vegas. Even in Chicago and now Minnesota. He seems like a great personality, and it’s been fun to watch his off-ice antics as much as his on-ice.
Celebrini’s first goal tied the game at 1-1 in the second period, beating Fleury on a one-timer after Sharks forward Mikael Granlund served the puck up on a silver platter with an impressive assist.
However, it was Celebrini’s second goal that truly stole the show, despite the game effectively being out of reach when it occurred.
Late in the third period, with San Jose trailing 4-1, Celebrini swiftly skated toward the middle of Minnesota’s zone, before ripping an incredible no-look shot that sailed over Fluery’s left shoulder for a goal you’d have to see to believe.
The goal was sensational, and for a fan base well-versed in the long-term patience needed to see the Sharks’ ambitious rebuild through, offered a silver lining in an otherwise tough loss at home.
For Celebrini, the goals don’t move him if they ultimately aren’t contributing to…