The San Jose Sharks are heading into the final stretch of January with a little swagger in their step-and for good reason. Friday’s 3-1 win over the New York Rangers wasn’t just another mark in the win column; it was a statement. After a tough start to the season, this team is beginning to show signs of what it could become, thanks in large part to its young stars and a front office that’s not afraid to shake things up.
Macklin Celebrini: The Real Deal, and Then Some
Let’s start with Macklin Celebrini, who’s quickly becoming must-watch hockey. The 18-year-old phenom continues to exceed already-lofty expectations.
Fresh off being named one of the NHL’s “3 Stars of the Month” for December, Celebrini backed it up with a two-goal performance against the Rangers. It wasn’t just the numbers-it was the way he took over the game.
His first goal came off a slick transition play, while the second showcased his elite hockey IQ and finishing touch.
What’s more, Celebrini’s breakout season has earned him a spot on Team Canada’s 2026 Olympic roster. That’s no small feat for a teenager.
Olympic nods at this age are reserved for the truly special, and Celebrini is proving he belongs in that conversation. As the Sharks hit the road, he’s the engine driving the offense-and the face of a franchise that’s starting to believe again.
Will Smith and the Rise of the Youth Movement
While Celebrini grabs the headlines, Will Smith is quietly putting together an impressive rookie campaign of his own. The 2023 first-round pick notched two assists in the win over New York, continuing a trend of smart, effective playmaking. He’s not flashy every night, but he’s steady-and his chemistry with Celebrini is becoming a real asset.
The Sharks have gone 3-2-0 in their last five games, and that’s no coincidence. The kids are clicking.
This youth movement isn’t just about development-it’s starting to translate into wins. For a team in transition, that’s exactly what you want to see.
Trade Deadline Watch: Grier Stays Active
General Manager Mike Grier isn’t waiting for March 6 to get his work done. He’s already made a pair of moves this month, bringing in forward Kiefer Sherwood from Vancouver and goaltender Laurent Brossoit earlier in January. Both additions signal a clear intent: keep this team competitive while building around the young core.
There’s still plenty of chatter around the Sharks’ pending free agents. Will Grier flip them for future assets or hold onto veterans who can help guide the kids through the grind of an NHL season?
He’s made it clear he wants to keep a competitive group around Celebrini and Smith, but don’t be surprised if more moves are on the horizon. The Sharks are walking the tightrope between developing for the future and staying competitive in the now.
The Western Canada Gauntlet
Up next: a road trip that will test this team’s mettle. The Sharks are heading north for a stretch that includes three games in five days against the Canucks, Oilers, and Flames. That’s a tough draw for any team, let alone one still finding its identity.
This swing through Western Canada is going to put the spotlight on the Sharks’ improved defense and goaltending. Brossoit’s arrival gives them some stability between the pipes, and the blue line has been more disciplined of late. But against high-powered offenses like Edmonton and Vancouver, there’s little margin for error.
What’s Ahead: Jan. 26 - Feb. 2
This week is about more than just wins and losses. It’s a measuring stick.
Can the Sharks hang with playoff-caliber teams on the road? Can the young core keep producing under pressure?
And will Grier pull the trigger on another move if the right deal comes along?
One thing’s for sure: the Sharks are no longer just a rebuilding team. They’re a team with purpose, with direction-and with some serious young talent that’s beginning to turn heads across the league.