The San Jose Sharks secured the No. 1 pick in the NHL draft after winning the draft lottery. General manager Mike Grier is eyeing Boston University center Macklin Celebrini as their top choice. Celebrini, a 17-year-old forward and the youngest Hobey Baker Memorial Award winner in college hockey, is the NHL Scouting Bureau's top-ranked prospect.
This marks the first time in franchise history that the Sharks will have the first overall pick. The team finished last in the overall standings this season, making this opportunity particularly significant for them.
Celebrini, hailing from North Vancouver, British Columbia, has ties to the Bay Area and Grier, having played for the Sharks' junior team. His father, Rick Celebrini, is the vice president of player health and performance for the NBA's Golden State Warriors.
The draft lottery results remained unchanged, with the Chicago Blackhawks retaining the No. 2 pick and the Anaheim Ducks following at No. 3. The NHL's newest market, Utah, maintained its position at No. 6 after the Arizona Coyotes' relocation to Salt Lake City.
The NHL announced that the draft will take place at the Sphere in Las Vegas on June 28 and 29, marking the first event televised at the venue.
San Jose's last-place finish led to significant changes, including the firing of coach David Quinn and the trading of key players like Tomas Hertl, Erik Karlsson, Brent Burns, and Timo Meier. The Sharks also acquired the No. 14 pick from Pittsburgh in a trade involving Karlsson.
Celebrini had an impressive season in college hockey, finishing third in Division I with 64 points. He is described as a strong skater with exceptional speed and agility, making him a top prospect for the upcoming draft.
With the draft approaching, the hockey world eagerly anticipates the selection of top prospects like Celebrini, as teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season.
