Maclin Celebrini's 40-goal milestone rewrites Sharks history in thrilling win
The San Jose Sharks secured a 4–3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, with rookie Maclin Celebrini delivering a standout performance. The 20-year-old forward scored twice, pushing his season total to 40 goals. This milestone places him among an elite group of young NHL scorers in the past three decades. Celebrini's two goals against Anaheim marked a rare achievement in Sharks history. He became the first San Jose player since Joe Pavelski in the 2013–14 season to reach 40 goals in a campaign. His 40th goal arrived in his 73rd game, cementing his place as the fifth-highest single-season scorer in franchise history—behind Jonathan Cheechoo's record of 56 goals in 2005–06.
The young forward is now the 11th teenager ever to hit 40 goals in an NHL regular season. He joins just four players aged 20 or younger—Patrik Laine, Auston Matthews, Rick Nash, and Wayne Gretzky—to achieve this feat in the last 30 years. Gretzky, Bossy, Carson, and Matthews previously managed it before turning 20, but Celebrini's accomplishment remains a standout in modern hockey. His four-point night against the Ducks further highlighted his impact on the Sharks' offence. With 40 goals at just 20 years old, he continues to rewrite expectations for young talent in the league.
Celebrini's 40-goal season puts him in rare company among NHL teenagers. The Sharks now have a rising star leading their attack, with his performance against Anaheim proving decisive. His achievement also ends a decade-long wait for a 40-goal scorer in San Jose.
