On a Saturday night in January 2023, the Golden State Warriors had an off night in Chicago. Draymond Green didn’t want to go to dinner or out on the town. He had another idea: going to the suburbs to watch junior hockey.
The next big thing in hockey is Macklin Celebrini, the unanimous No. 1 prospect of the 2024 NHL draft class. Celebrini is also the son of Rick Celebrini, the Warriors vice president of player health and performance.
The Warriors staff and players arranged a ride to Geneva, Illinois to see Macklin play. It was a night full of surprises for the Warriors. They found out that Macklin’s nickname was The Cheetah, a fitting name for his speed and agility on the ice.
Despite not having the best game that night, Macklin’s resilience and determination were evident. Even at just 16, playing against older and more physically mature players, he showed his grit and skill.
Macklin, the second of four kids, grew up in Vancouver and was drawn to hockey from a young age. His parents, both former soccer players, initially introduced him to skating, but once he had a stick in his hand, his passion for hockey was undeniable.
Rick Celebrini, a renowned physiotherapist who has worked with professional athletes, including Steve Nash, instilled in Macklin the importance of professionalism and attention to detail from an early age. Rick’s influence, along with Macklin’s natural talent and hard work, propelled him to success.
Macklin’s journey to becoming the top NHL prospect was marked by setting and achieving ambitious goals. His time at Shattuck-St. Mary’s and later with the Chicago Steel showcased his exceptional skills and leadership qualities on the ice.
The Celebrini family’s close bond and support for each other have been instrumental in Macklin’s development as an athlete. His siblings, Aiden, RJ, and Charlie, have also excelled in their respective sports, creating a culture of athletic excellence within the family.
As Macklin prepares to enter the NHL and follow in the footsteps of his idols like Crosby and Kane, his blend of confidence, humility, and work ethic set him apart. The support and guidance he has received from his family, especially his father, Rick, have been invaluable in shaping him into the outstanding athlete he is today.