It didn’t take long for Macklin Celebrini to make an impact with the San Jose Sharks.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft scored on a shot from the slot against the Utah Hockey Club on Friday in the Sharks’ first game at the Rookie Showcase in El Segundo, Calif.

On the power play, Celebrini took a pass from Luca Cagnoni and showed patience, faking a slapper before whipping a shot home to tie the game at 2-2.

“It felt really good,” Celebrini said after the Sharks’ 3-2 win, per The Hockey News. “Changing before the game and then warm-ups, putting the jersey on, it kind of came real, and it was a good feeling,” Celebrini said postgame. “I’ve played there a bunch. It’s like anything, the more time you spend there, the more comfortable you are there. For some reason (that’s) where I always get put.”

The native of North Vancouver was picked first by the Sharks after winning the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in the NCAA in his freshman season at Boston University.

Celebrini also had four goals and four assists in eight games for Canada at last year’s world junior hockey championship.

“I think it’s good for him. It’s confidence building,” Sharks rookie team coach John McCarthy said about his goal Friday. “I thought just the way that he played the game, the puck is on his stick almost every time he’s on the ice. He controls the game when he’s on the ice, and it’s good to see him get the goal.”

Macklin Celebrini, a promising young talent with the Sharks, made quite the impression in his debut game by scoring a goal. The 19-year-old forward showcased his skill and determination on the ice, earning praise from teammates and fans alike.

Celebrini’s goal came at a crucial moment in the game, helping to secure a much-needed win for the Sharks. His speed and agility on the ice were on full display as he maneuvered past defenders to find the back of the net.

Despite his young age, Celebrini showed maturity and composure under pressure, proving that he has what it takes to compete at the professional level. His performance in his debut game has already sparked excitement among Sharks fans, who are eager to see what he will bring to the team in the future.

With his impressive debut, Macklin Celebrini has proven that he is a player to watch in the upcoming season. His talent and determination are sure to make him a valuable asset to the Sharks as they continue their quest for success on the ice.