NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition – Macklin Celebrini

In hockey, every player has their own preferences when it comes to equipment. Macklin Celebrini has managed to stand out not just for his exceptional skills but also for some of his equipment choices in the early going of his career. As the projected number one overall selection at the upcoming 2024 NHL Entry Draft, the spotlight on Celebrini extends beyond his on-ice performance to sticks, skates, and other gear he’s using.

Celebrini's journey into the hockey spotlight began in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Chicago Steel. At the beginning of the 2022-23 USHL season, before joining Boston University, he caught the attention of equipment fans and experts alike by choosing a CCM JetSpeed FT5 Pro stick. This was a somewhat intriguing choice given the strict partnership between the USHL and Bauer, requiring all players to use Bauer equipment, with limited exceptions.

The early use of a CCM stick hinted at Celebrini's preference for the brand. However, things slightly changed when, in January 2023, he was spotted experimenting with a Bauer AG5NT stick. This sparked some questioning about a potential shift in his equipment allegiance, perhaps suggesting that he was turning a corner and warming up to a new brand of sticks.

Entering his freshman season with the Boston University Terriers in September 2023, Celebrini was seen at the BioSteel Sports Camp with a brand-new CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick. This marked a clear evolution in his equipment choices, suggesting a growing comfort and satisfaction with CCM's offerings.

So far throughout his inaugural season with the Terriers, Celebrini has remained loyal to the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick, complementing it with FT6 Pro skates. This choice sets him apart from many teammates who predominantly use Bauer sticks and skates, showcasing his commitment to his preferred brand.

While Celebrini's Vapor HyperLite gloves, Re-Akt 150 helmet, and Bauer pants adhere to the obligations of Boston University's partnership with the brand, the speculation will remain as the NHL Entry Draft approaches. As the projected top pick, the equipment he eventually chooses could have broader implications for his future endorsements and partnerships.

The looming question is: which equipment company will Celebrini sign with as he transitions to the professional ranks? CCM appears to be the obvious choice based on his gear selections in recent seasons. Still though, the hockey world has witnessed surprising turns, as seen with last year's first overall pick, Connor Bedard, who opted for Sherwood against initial predictions.

As draft day nears, the rumor mill is bound to churn out predictions of potential offers from various brands. Will another company sway Celebrini with an irresistible offer, or will CCM solidify its apparent mutual agreement with the young prospect? Only time will reveal the outcome, adding an extra layer of anticipation to Celebrini's journey into the NHL.

Photo Credit: https://goterriers.com