The Detroit Red Wings are set to host the San Jose Sharks tonight in a game that carries real weight for both teams in their respective playoff races. But let’s be clear-this isn’t the same San Jose team that’s been stuck in neutral for the past six seasons. These Sharks have bite, and a big reason why is the emergence of Macklin Celebrini.
Celebrini, still just a teenager, is already playing like a franchise cornerstone. He’s not just a bright spot on the roster-he’s the engine.
The Sharks are currently holding onto a Western Conference wildcard spot, and Celebrini’s impact is impossible to miss. His play has elevated the group around him, and suddenly, San Jose is looking like a team that believes it belongs in the postseason.
Detroit head coach Todd McLellan knows exactly what that kind of belief can do. He’s seen it firsthand in his own locker room.
The Red Wings have built a culture that’s centered on accountability, chemistry, and playing for each other. McLellan has repeatedly credited the team’s closeness as a key factor in their success this season-and it’s showing up in the standings.
This matchup isn’t just another midseason game. Both teams are walking a tightrope in their respective conferences.
The Red Wings are just two points shy of the top spot in the East, but the margin for error is razor-thin-only five points separate them from falling out of a playoff position altogether. The Sharks, meanwhile, have a narrow two-point cushion in the West’s wildcard race.
“(Celebrini is) definitely driving that (Sharks) team, created a lot of confidence,” McLellan said. “As he elevates his play, others around him, they elevate their play and now they’re a very tough team to play against.”
It’s a fascinating contrast-one team built around a generational young talent finding his voice in the NHL, the other a cohesive unit led by veterans and a coach who’s seen a few playoff races in his time. Both teams know what’s at stake, and both are playing like it.
Around the Red Wings
Detroit made a precautionary move by recalling defenseman Erik Gustafsson from Grand Rapids, with a few blueliners nursing minor injuries. Gustafsson brings experience and stability, which could come in handy if the Wings need to shuffle their pairings.
Meanwhile, Sheldon Dries has been returned to the Griffins, and the AHL affiliate continues to impress. Grand Rapids will be sending three players to the AHL All-Star Game: goalie Sebastian Cossa (a jaw-dropping 17-1-2 record with a 1.85 GAA), forward John Leonard (21 goals), and Dominik Shine (27 points in 26 games). Honestly, with how well the Griffins have played this season, you could make a case for a few more names joining them.
Quick Hits from Around the League
- In Boston, Zdeno Chara’s number was officially raised to the rafters, and former teammates shared what the towering defenseman meant to the Bruins’ identity.
- Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald took accountability for New Jersey’s struggles this season, a rare but refreshing moment of transparency from a front office.
- And in Philadelphia, the Flyers are reportedly in the market for another goalie, as trade chatter heats up around the league.
Back in Detroit, though, the focus tonight is squarely on the Sharks-and on a game that could say a lot about where both of these teams are headed.