San Jose Sharks fans were likely disappointed on Monday morning when they heard that Macklin Celebrini will miss at least another two weeks with a lower-body injury. However, the time he is spending recovering could be great for his chances of winning the Calder Trophy this season.
The No. 1 pick from the 2024 NHL Draft has been sidelined since the first game of the season, and his odds of winning the rookie of the year honors have lengthened in his absence.
That being said, Sharks general manager Mike Grier told the local media on Monday that Celebrini is spending more time in the gym as part of his recovery. This could have long-term benefits for the 18-year-old forward, Grier explained.
“It’s definitely been helpful for him to spend some more time in the gym, to keep building up his body to get used to the rigors of the league,” he said, via NHL.com. “When he gets back, he’s going to be going against teams’ top pair D most nights.”
Celebrini has been on injured reserve, retroactive to Oct. 10. He hasn’t returned to practice with the team yet, although Grier confirmed on Monday that the young center has resumed skating on his own.
“Injuries happen, right?” Grier said. “He’s going to miss some games here to start, but I think he’s getting his skill work done off the ice. He’s doing his gym work. I don’t think it’s going to hinder any of his development.”
