While Celebrini had two assists in his first game as an NHL player in his hometown, his giveaway at the offensive blue line — later resulting in a Vancouver Canucks goal — was top of mind in what would become a 4-3 Sharks loss at Rogers Arena.

Macklin Celebrini grew up dreaming about playing NHL hockey at Rogers Arena. Soon that dream will become a reality.

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Macklin Celebrini came into the NHL with a ton of fanfare as the top pick in the draft and the immediate face of the franchise for the San Jose Sharks.

The San Jose Sharks drafted Macklin Celebrini first overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Celebrini immediately signed with the Sharks, forgoing his remaining college eligibility. So far, that move has been the correct one.

Macklin Celebrini already has a lot of memorable firsts in the NHL but playing his first game in his hometown will rank right up there with them. The 18-year-old forward was selected No.1 by the San Jose Sharks in the 2024 NHL Draft in June.