Celebrini Shines as Sharks Secure 6-3 Victory Over Flames

The San Jose Sharks achieved a commanding 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames on December 17, 2025, at SAP Center, bolstered by an impressive performance from rookie sensation Macklin Celebrini. The 18-year-old forward not only assisted on two goals but also scored a remarkable goal himself, contributing to a four-point night that electrified the crowd of 14,261.

Celebrini’s standout moments included assisting John Klingberg and Barclay Goodrow before netting an empty-net goal at the 18:21 mark of the third period. Klingberg’s opening goal came just 62 seconds into the game, delivered through a no-look backhand pass from Celebrini. Shortly before the intermission, Celebrini assisted on Goodrow’s second goal, showcasing his ability to elevate the play of his linemates.

In the third period, Celebrini added to his highlight reel when he received a pass from Collin Graf. Demonstrating quick footwork, he spun past Flames defenseman Kevin Bahl before firing a shot that ricocheted off his body and into the net, marking his 17th goal and 50th point of the season. This milestone makes him only the third player in Sharks history to reach 50 points before the NHL’s holiday break, following in the footsteps of Joe Thornton in the 2009-10 season and Owen Nolan in 1999-00.

Celebrini’s recent form has been remarkable; he has tallied 10 points in his last five games, helping the Sharks to a 4-1-0 record during that span. His current line, featuring Graf and rookie Igor Chernyshov, has adapted well in the absence of injured players Will Smith and Philipp Kurashev. Smith is week-to-week with an upper-body injury sustained during a recent game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, while Kurashev’s timeline for return remains uncertain.

Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky provided updates on the injured players, stating that Smith will be reevaluated by medical staff on Monday. He emphasized that while surgery is not currently being considered, the team will monitor Smith’s condition closely.

The Sharks took a 3-2 lead into the first intermission, with Goodrow scoring his first two-goal regular season game since April 5, 2024. The sequence of Goodrow’s second goal highlighted the team’s synergy; he initially passed to Ty Dellandrea, who maneuvered behind the Flames’ net before setting up Celebrini for a quick shot that ultimately led to Goodrow tapping in the puck for his third goal of the season.

Klingberg’s goal initiated a five-game point streak, during which he has amassed eight points, further solidifying the Sharks’ offensive momentum. The victory over the Flames enhances the team’s standing as they navigate the challenges of the NHL season, with Celebrini emerging as a focal point of hope and excitement for the franchise.