Macklin Celebrini, the promising young star for the San Jose Sharks and the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, has found an unlikely mentor in NBA veteran Draymond Green. Celebrini, who is the son of Golden State’s director of sports medicine and performance, Rick Celebrini, has garnered admiration from various figures in the Warriors organization since his days leading up to the draft.
Green, renowned for his tenacity and competitive spirit, has frequently praised the 19-year-old Celebrini. One memorable moment was when Green donned a Sharks jersey during a postgame press conference, demonstrating his support for the budding hockey talent. In a recent interview with KNBR’s “Murph and Markus,” Celebrini spoke to the impact Green has had on him, stating, “I think his compete and the way he battles every night… he’s a major reason why they were so good for so many years.”
Celebrini admires how Green’s hard work, often focused on defense, remains vital to the Warriors’ success, despite not always receiving the spotlight. He emphasized that Green embodies the ultimate competitor, showcasing how important detail and perseverance are in achieving greatness.
While the NHL rookie has been making headlines with his impressive offensive performance—ranking third in points league-wide—he remains eager to soak up knowledge from Green. When asked about learning any trash-talking techniques, Celebrini noted that their conversations focus more on his progress than on the art of banter.
This relationship highlights how hockey and basketball, while distinct, share common values in competitiveness and hard work. As Celebrini continues to elevate his game, developing a mindset similar to Green’s could further enhance his prowess on the ice. If he can combine his natural talent with strategic mental play, the NHL should brace for an even more formidable force in the young skater.