Team Canada’s Olympic opener was everything fans hoped for: fast, physical, and dominant. A 5-0 win over Czechia didn’t just showcase Canada’s depth. It also highlighted why 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini belongs on this roster. And after the game, Sidney Crosby made it clear there’s no debate about that.
Sidney Crosby Shared His Thoughts on Macklin Celebrini’s Role With Team Canada
Celebrini opened the scoring in dramatic fashion. With just 5.7 seconds remaining in the first period, he tipped a point shot from Cale Makar at the top of the crease, giving Canada a 1-0 lead and setting the tone for the night.
It was a huge moment, and a historic one. At 19, Celebrini became the youngest player ever selected to a Canadian Olympic roster featuring NHL talent.
Crosby, the veteran leader of this group, didn’t hesitate when asked about the youngster’s place on the team. “He believes in himself,” Crosby said. “I think he works hard. He’s obviously earned the right to be here. I don’t think he was a guy that was on the bubble. He played his way on to the team and he’s had an incredible year so far and just carried it over to today.”
That’s about as strong an endorsement as it gets.
Celebrini is also in the middle of a remarkable NHL season, entering the Olympic break ranked fourth in league scoring and firmly in the MVP conversation.
Thriving on the Top Line
Team Canada didn’t ease him in, either. Celebrini skated on the first line alongside Connor McDavid and Tom Wilson, a clear sign of the trust the coaching staff has in him. And he looked comfortable.
Beyond Celebrini’s goal, Canada received scoring from Mark Stone, Bo Horvat, Nathan MacKinnon, and Nick Suzuki. In the net, Jordan Binnington stopped all 26 shots he faced to secure the shutout.
But much of the postgame conversation circled back to the 19-year-old who opened the scoring.
Celebrini admitted that he felt nervous before puck drop, understandable for anyone making their Olympic debut.
Still, once the game began, pride took over. “I think it’s all pride, you’re just honored to wear the Canadian sweater and represent all the people back at home and all the other athletes that are here,” Celebrini said.
“I think that’s the biggest thing, that we’re not Team Canada. Every athlete, whether they’re in Cortina or down here, we’re all repping Team Canada and trying to make the people back home proud.”
It was a mature response that matched his performance on the ice.
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Canada’s quest for gold began with a decisive statement against Czechia. Next up is Switzerland on Friday, as the Canadians look to build momentum.
