Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini Banged up After Debut That May Keep Him Out of Ducks Game

Macklin Celebrini made his NHL debut in last night's 5-4 OT loss to the St Louis Blues. A disappointing performance in the third period spoiled the party atmosphere surrounding the team going into the first game for the number one overall pick from this summer. But, the rookie sensation did not disappoint, with a goal and an assist to help the Sharks establish their 4-1 lead. He let the hockey world know that he is the real deal.

However, since the conclusion of this game, we have learned that he might be even better than we thought. Celebrini is dealing with an injury that might keep him out of tomorrow's game with the Anaheim Ducks. New Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky refused to confirm if the injury was suffered in the defeat to the Blues or if it was still something lingering from the preseason, but if it is the latter, this kid could be special.

Dealing with an injury would explain why his ice time dropped in the third period. While he struggled defensively, he also spent 46% of his even-strength ice time in the Sharks zone, which is not what you want from someone with his talent level. You want him in the other end of the ice where he's dangerous, can create scoring chances, and put the puck in the net himself.

San Jose needs to protect this kid at all costs. He is everything the organization has been praying for since the decline of the old guard. It's been a while since the Sharks had a talent that could force its way into debates about potentially being the best in the league. Celebrini is someone with the talent level capable of breaking into that conversation. If he needs to rest, let him rest. This isn't the time to mess around with injuries.