Projected No. 1 Pick Macklin Celebrini Talks About the Support He’s Received from Connor Bedard in Handling Draft Hype

Macklin Celebrini is expected to be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming 2024 NHL Draft. Despite the intense hype that comes with such a high profile, Celebrini recently revealed that he’s received support from Connor Bedard, the 2023 No. 1 pick.

The Boston University center shared that Bedard, now with the Chicago Blackhawks, reached out to offer guidance. Bedard told Celebrini he could “call anytime” if he needed help managing the draft-related pressure.

Boston University center Macklin Celebrini, the likely No. 1 pick, meeting media at the Combine. He talked about fellow North Vancouver native Connor Bedard reaching to say call anytime if he has any questions about how to handle all the draft hype pic.twitter.com/2FtzsnQRJ6

— Adam Kimelman (@NHLAdamK) June 7, 2024

Connor Bedard navigated the draft hype with impressive poise last year and had a standout rookie season, despite missing over a month due to injury. He led all rookies with 22 goals, 61 points, 39 even-strength points, 7 game-opening goals, and 47 takeaways in 67 games.

Bedard also ranked first among first-year forwards in average ice time per game and power-play points (21). He set a new Blackhawks’ franchise record for most opening goals in a season and established a rookie record with 205 shots on goal.

Looking ahead, the San Jose Sharks hold the first pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Macklin Celebrini recently mentioned enjoying a dinner with Sharks General Manager Mike Grier, praising him as “awesome” and noting his great personality.