Macklin Celebrini will captain Canada before he captains the San Jose Sharks. He was named captain of Canada’s World Championships squad on Sunday, with Ryan O’Reilly and John Tavares serving as alternate captains. Tapping the 19-year-old to lead a star-studded roster is a significant statement. O’Reilly, Tavares, Mark Scheifele, Mathew Barzal, Robert Thomas, Morgan Rielly, Darnell Nurse, Evan Bouchard, and Cam Talbot are among those representing Canada. Celebrini is viewed as the future of Canadian hockey, and this appointment only reinforces that perception.
Could this be a precursor to Celebrini being named captain of the San Jose Sharks? Sheng Peng of San Jose Hockey has repeatedly stated he would be surprised if Celebrini isn’t given the “C” this fall. Meanwhile, at San Jose Hockey Now, speculation continues about who the Sharks will draft at No. 2, with mock drafts leaning toward one prospect. The PWHL also appears to be headed to San Jose.
Other Sharks News: 2024 Sharks’ fourth-round pick Christian Kirsch has put the Kitchener Rangers one win away from the Memorial Cup. The Rangers, led by Kirsch’s 15-2-0 record, lead the Barrie Colts 3-0 in the OHL Finals. 2025 Sharks’ third-round pick Teddy Mutryn is also trying to reach the Memorial Cup; his Moncton Wildcats are tied 1-1 with the Chicoutimi Sagueneens in the QMJHL Finals. Women’s hockey teams have existed in Oakland and San Francisco since 1916. Celebrini is back in action, scoring against France in a Worlds tune-up.
Around the NHL: The Anaheim Ducks have evened their series with the Vegas Golden Knights at 2-2, as Mark Stone missed Game Four for the Knights. The Montreal Canadiens beat the Buffalo Sabres decisively to take a 2-1 series lead. The Ottawa Charge are headed back to the PWHL Final. The Foligno Face-Off wrapped up on Mother’s Day, raising more than $200,000. “Heated Rivalry” showrunner Jacob Tierney discussed the importance of queer joy and representation. Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Sean Walker is a new father. It was a good run for the Philadelphia Flyers this season. P.K. Subban completed his $10 million donation to Montreal Children’s Hospital.
Additionally, Krystal McKenna, mother of 2026 Draft consensus No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna, has been charged with distributing liquor to minors.