Macklin Celebrini has emerged as one of the most talked‑about prospects in the NHL, but few know that his earliest lessons in movement came on a soccer field rather than an ice rink.
Both of Celebrini’s parents met while playing university soccer at the University of British Columbia, and the sport was a constant presence throughout his childhood. He credits those early experiences with sharpening the footwork, agility and spatial awareness that now define his style as a centre‑forward in hockey.
Earlier this summer he travelled to Vancouver to watch the World Cup matches, and he also organized a soccer camp in partnership with AirBNB on July 2, using the game to give youngsters a taste of the same multi‑skill development that helped him rise.
From the Pitch to the Rink
Celebrini’s breakout performance earned him the 2025‑26 IIHF Male Player of the Year, a accolade that underscores his rapid ascent. He is also slated to appear on the cover of the upcoming NHL 27 video game, a testament to his growing marketability.
Off the ice, the San Jose Sharks have taken a major step forward by purchasing a Google‑owned office building to serve as their new downtown headquarters. The move is intended to provide a modern, centralized base for the franchise as it looks ahead to the next era.
Around the League
The offseason has been busy across the hockey landscape. Eight AHL head coaches have been promoted to NHL positions, and several high‑profile contracts have been signed in free agency, including some of the most favorable deals of the year. Meanwhile, the Barracuda announced the signing of Thomas Messineo to a one‑year contract, and the PWHL continues to explore ways to honor women’s hockey history.
Training insights from both NHL and PWHL performance coaches were shared, highlighting techniques that players like Matthew Tkachuk and Sergei Bobrovsky are adapting as they prepare for the upcoming season. The 3ICE league is also back, adding another layer of competition to the hockey ecosystem.