Celebrini scores a fantastic first NHL goal in the Sharks' season opener

Celebrini scores stunning first NHL goal in Sharks' season opener originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN JOSE – The Sharks' Macklin-Celebrini era got off to a quick start in style.

Celebrini, the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, scored his first NHL regular-season goal in stunning fashion just 7:01 into the first period of San Jose's season opener on Thursday night at SAP Center a spinning backhand against St. Louis Blues defenseman Matthew Kessel's right skate and goalie Joel Hoffer.

William Eklund and Jake Walman assisted on Celebrini's remarkable goal, and the rookie center added an assist of his own later in the first half as veteran Tyler Toffoli scored his first Sharks goal.

“I got the puck there with some room and saw (Eklund) shoot it into the net, so I just decided to create some room and make a play to the front of the net to see if he could get a stick “It,” Celebrini told ESPN in an interview during the first break from his goal. “I actually didn’t know I scored a goal until he told me a little bit in the group, but no, I’m just happy it went in.”

Celebrini, who totaled 64 points for Boston University last season, wasted no time in filling an NHL scoring list with the two points in his first professional stint. His debut outburst thrilled Warriors forward Draymond Green, who became a Celebrini fan through the 18-year-old center's father, Rick, who is Golden State's vice president of player health and performance.

Celebrini ushers in a new generation of Sharks hockey – and doesn't waste much time in the process.

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