In a matchup between the Florida Panthers and San Jose Sharks, Aleksander Barkov praised 18-year-old rookie Macklin Celebrini for his mature two-way game. Despite the Sharks' last-place standing in the NHL, Celebrini's impressive statistics, including leading rookie goals, have drawn significant attention. Barkov emphasized that Celebrini does not rely on offensive cheating, playing the game correctly and demonstrating respect for the sport. Panthers coach Paul Maurice echoed these sentiments, highlighting Celebrini's performance and potential future as a Selke Trophy candidate due to his defensive skills and hockey IQ.
You see the things that all these young guys do nowadays with a lot of skill. But he played the game the right way. He did not cheat the game.
He's putting up a lot of points too, but it's not because of his cheating for offense, Barkov said of Celebrini. He's playing the game right way.
Really impressed with him and his respect for the game, Maurice said of Celebrini.
Though the Sharks are struggling in the standings, Celebrini’s skill level and two-way play draw attention as a future Selke Trophy candidate.
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