San Jose Sharks rookie Macklin Celebrini delivered an electrifying performance on December 17, 2025, leading his team to a 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames at SAP Center. Celebrini’s contributions included two assists and two goals, one of which was an impressive empty-net score late in the third period, marking a four-point night for the young center.
The game began with an early surge from the Sharks, as John Klingberg opened the scoring just 62 seconds into the first period. Klingberg executed a no-look backhand pass that found the net, setting the tone for an energetic matchup. Celebrini assisted on two goals, including one from Barclay Goodrow, who netted his first two-goal game of the season. Goodrow’s second goal, which came just before the first intermission, was the result of a clever setup from Celebrini, showcasing the young talent’s ability to make plays under pressure.
As the third period unfolded, Celebrini added another highlight to his growing resume. After Collin Graf advanced the puck into the Flames’ zone, he delivered a pass to Celebrini. The rookie executed a spin move to evade defenseman Kevin Bahl, firing a shot that was initially stopped by Flames goalie Dustin Wolf. The puck deflected off Celebrini and into the net for his 17th goal of the season, bringing his points total to 50. This achievement makes him only the third player in Sharks history to reach the 50-point milestone before the NHL’s holiday break, joining legends Joe Thornton and Owen Nolan.
Celebrini’s performance has seen him accumulate ten points in his last five games, contributing significantly to the Sharks’ recent record of 4-1-0 during that span. Despite the absence of regular linemates Will Smith and Philipp Kurashev due to injuries, Celebrini has adapted well, partnering with Graf and rookie Igor Chernyshov for this match. Smith, who suffered an upper-body injury, is expected to be reevaluated by the team’s medical staff soon, while Kurashev is considered week-to-week.
Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky expressed optimism regarding Smith’s potential recovery, stating, “I don’t think we’re there yet,” in response to questions about possible surgery. Before his injury, Smith had amassed 29 points in 33 games, significantly impacting the Sharks’ success.
The Sharks maintained a slim 3-2 lead after the first period, bolstered by Goodrow’s quick goals and Klingberg’s opening score. Goodrow’s second goal was a product of teamwork, as he received a pass from Ty Dellandrea after a clever play behind the Flames’ net, showcasing the Sharks’ offensive depth.
Klingberg’s strong contribution continued with a five-game point streak, bringing his total to eight points during this stretch. The Sharks’ victory against the Flames highlights not only Celebrini’s rising stardom but also the team’s resilience in the face of injury challenges.
As the season progresses, Celebrini’s remarkable performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With such a promising start to his career, the San Jose Sharks appear to have a bright future ahead.
