Macklin Celebrini rang up three San Jose Sharks draft picks on June 27, 2026, turning a routine draft night into a personal welcome tour for the franchise’s newest talent. The 20‑year‑old center, who logged 115 points in 82 games last season, called defenseman Keaton Verhoeff, winger Ivar Stenberg and fellow Vancouver native Ryan Lin within minutes of their selections.
Who received Celebrini’s calls?
Verhoeff, the ninth‑overall pick, heard Celebrini’s voice while standing in the KeyBank Center lobby. He described the moment as "a little star‑struck" and recalled watching Celebrini dominate two years earlier in Vegas. Stenberg, selected second overall, said he hopes to skate alongside Celebrini once training camp opens. Lin, the 21st‑overall defenseman, shared a laugh with Celebrini about their shared Vancouver roots and their off‑ice chemistry from the offseason.
Why the calls matter for the Sharks?
Celebrini’s outreach signals a cultural shift in San Jose, where the star center’s reputation now attracts young prospects. He finished fourth in NHL scoring last season with 115 points in 82 games, a rare feat for a player under 21. As an alternate captain, he helped guide a squad that included Mario Ferraro and Barclay Goodrow, and he captained Canada at the World Championship in Switzerland. His presence gives the draftees a tangible benchmark of success and a direct line to a player who’s already a league‑wide reference.
What’s next for the new draftees?
Verhoeff is expected to return to North Dakota for another NCAA season, while Lin will suit up for the University of Denver. Stenberg, confident in his readiness, may earn a spot on Celebrini’s line when the Sharks begin September training camp. The trio will likely lean on Celebrini’s habits—both on‑ice instincts and off‑ice preparation—as they transition from junior ranks to the professional arena. And as the Sharks build around their top‑line center, the organization hopes these early connections will accelerate the newcomers’ adaptation to the NHL.