Macklin Celebrini reportedly nearing major new role with Sharks
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
San Jose Hockey Now says a source now calls it all but certain that Macklin Celebrini becomes the next Sharks captain, backing up Emily Kaplan's earlier ESPN report.
The wait might finally be nearing its end in San Jose.
Macklin Celebrini has spent the last two seasons proving hes the face of the franchise, and now the people covering the team closely are saying its just a matter of time before he gets the letter to match.
San Jose Hockey Now followed up on a report from ESPN's Emily Kaplan that first surfaced back in May, and the answer they got back was blunt.
A source told the outlet it's too obvious, adding that it's all but certain Celebrini will be named captain.
"Macklin Celebrini is 'all but guaranteed' to be captain of the Sharks; That's what Emily Kaplan of ESPN reported in May; San Jose Hockey Now followed up on the ESPN insider's report; a source told SJHN...'It's all but certain.'
- Sheng Peng
- Sheng Peng
Why the timing makes sense
Celebrini was already tabbed as an alternate captain heading into last season, and he responded by putting together one of the best individual campaigns in franchise history.
He broke Joe Thornton's single season points record, helped push San Jose to a massive jump in the standings, and did all of it as a teenager.
If the Sharks are looking for a leader to build around for the next decade, the resume is already there.
What it would mean for the franchise
Naming Celebrini captain would make him the first player to wear the C in San Jose since Logan Couture stepped away from the role.
Given his age and his trajectory, this wouldn't just be a short term fix, it would be a long term cornerstone decision for a franchise trying to climb back into playoff contention.
San Jose hasn't had a true captain in a while, and fans have been waiting to see who steps into that void.
All signs now point to Celebrini being the answer.
Also read on House Of Hockey :
Three teams could steal Adam Fantilli from Columbus with a massive offer sheet
Three teams could steal Adam Fantilli from Columbus with a massive offer sheet