The San Jose Sharks' Macklin Celebrini is making waves in the NHL, with comparisons to the legendary Sidney Crosby. At just 19 years old, Celebrini is tied for the league lead in scoring with 21 points and is one of only five teenagers in NHL history to have tallied 15 points through the first nine games of a season. But here's where it gets interesting: Celebrini's success is not just a fluke. He's already posted a career-long seven-game point streak, earned his second career hat trick over the New York Rangers, and become the first teen in league history to lead in scoring at this stage of a campaign. And get this: he's doing it all while competing against the very player he looked up to as a kid, Sidney Crosby. Growing up, Celebrini looked up to Crosby as an icon and role-model figure. When they first played together at worlds in 2025, Celebrini tried to call him "Mr. Crosby." But Crosby corrected him, saying, "I'm Sid." Despite their age difference, Celebrini's competitiveness on the ice has fans pointing out how similar he is to Crosby. And it's not just his competitiveness that's impressive. Celebrini's 21 points (eight goals, 13 assists) are actually more than Crosby's current 19 (11 goals, eight assists). So, is Celebrini the next big thing in the NHL? Or is he just a flash in the pan? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: Celebrini is definitely one to watch. And this is the part most people miss: Celebrini's success is not just good for the San Jose Sharks, but for the entire NHL. His skill is indicative of the fact that players across all ages can see great success. But it's also indicative that new, young talent can go toe to toe with all-time league greats. So, the next time you're watching an NHL game, keep an eye out for Macklin Celebrini. You might just see the next Sidney Crosby.
