Before the start of the season, many considered Macklin Celebrini to be the most promising rookie in the National Hockey League (NHL), and rightly so. His power, skills and talent have constantly propelled him throughout his career. His integration into the Bettman circuit seemed to be no exception.
However, supporters of his candidacy for rookie of the year saw their hopes waver at the start of the campaign. Celebrini missed 12 games, an absence which allowed Matvei Michkov, another serious contender, to shine. The Philadelphia Flyers protégé took advantage of this period to comfortably settle at the top of the scoring rankings among first-year athletes, multiplying his impressive performances.
Since his return to the game, however, the former Boston University standard-bearer has changed the game. Not only is Celebrini averaging a point per game this season, but Michkov, for his part, seems to be slowing down with the Flyers, notably with a streak of six games without points that has lasted since December 12.
Beyond his offensive production, Celebrini shines night after night with his feints, his playing intelligence and his hard work. Friday, against the Vegas Golden Knights, number 71 once again dazzled with a spectacular play.
This duel against the reigning 2023 champions allowed him to register his 26th point, propelling him to second place in San Jose Sharks history for offensive production by an 18-year-old hockey player. Only Patrick Marleau did better with a collection of 32 points. Since Celebrini won’t turn 19 until June, he looks set to surpass that mark.
Currently, Michkov is only one point ahead of his two closest pursuers, Celebrini and Lane Hutson. In such a tight context, the 20-year-old Russian has no room for error. A misstep could present their rivals with the perfect opportunity to seize the top spot in the standings.
If the fight remains this intense until the end of the season, hockey fans will have the privilege of witnessing a captivating spectacle, marked by suspense. A real battle between a few recruits for the prestigious trophy adds an exciting dimension to the progress of the campaign.
Failing to have played on Friday like Celebrini, Michkov and Hutson will be back in action on Saturday.
