Sharks Rookies Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith Shine in NHL Debuts
Celebrini earns NHL Rookie of the Month and First Star of the Week honors as the young duo fuels San Jose's resurgence after a tough start.
- Macklin Celebrini, the NHL's top draft pick, has 14 points in 15 games, leading all rookies with an average of 0.93 points per game.
- Celebrini was named NHL Rookie of the Month for November and First Star of the Week after a standout stretch with four goals and three assists in four games.
- Will Smith, selected fourth overall in 2023, is finding his rhythm with seven points in his last four games, contributing to the Sharks' improved performance.
- San Jose has rebounded from an 0-9 start, going 9-6-3 since Celebrini's return from a hip injury that sidelined him for nearly a month.
- The rookies benefit from mentorship by Sharks legends Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau, who are helping guide their transition to the NHL.