Chicago Blackhawks 2023 NHL Draft No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard has offered greater visibility to the Windy City hockey market. Recent Blackhawks rookies such as Alex Vlasic, Lukas Reichel, Louis Crevier, and Cole Guttman received additional attention thanks to Bedard.
That is not knocking what each of those youngsters has accomplished thus far. Bedard brings extra attention starting with greater national television exposure.
The Blackhawks had 13 nationally televised games during the 2023-24 regular season. The San Jose Sharks had just five nationally televised games during the 2023-24 regular season.
Macklin Celebrini’s arrival should give a large boost to the Sharks national television audience.
Celebrini shined with Boston University during the 2023-24 season with 32 goals and 32 assists. The 2024 No. 1 overall pick seems ready to make the jump to the NHL.
Now would be a great time to invest in the following youngsters with the Sharks.
Eklund has 97 career NHL games under his belt with 52 points. Could Eklund find himself on a line with Celebrini come opening night?
Bordeleau split time between the Sharks and San Jose Barracuda of the AHL last season. The Sharks have not rushed Bordeleau as he appeared in 100 AHL games vs. 35 NHL games over the last two seasons. The only thing working against Bordeleau is the log jam at the center position in San Jose.
At this point, it is worth investing in any forward on the Sharks that played in 100 or less NHL games. Celebrini is going to drive interest to the national television audience.
Happy hunting and collecting!
