Macklin Celebrini ready to captain Sharks and follow McDavid, Crosby’s path

The San Jose Sharks may be preparing to hand Macklin Celebrini one of the NHL’s most significant leadership roles. Reports and growing expectations surrounding the organization suggest that Celebrini might wear the captain’s “C” when San Jose opens its 2026-27 campaign against the Florida Panthers. His age may be open to debate, but his form has made it harder and harder to argue against him taking an early leadership role.Celebrini has quickly become the centrepiece of the San Jose Sharks’ rebuild. His ability to impact games, perform under pressure and take ownership in critical moments has led to comparisons with some of the NHL’s top young leaders.