Canada’s victory over Sweden was more than just a win—it was a statement. After an inconsistent showing against Finland, the team responded with one of its most complete performances of the tournament
Every aspect of the game improved, from goaltending and defensive structure to special teams and leadership.
With the quarterfinals on the horizon and momentum on their side, Canada enters the knockout stage as a top contender.
If they can replicate the kind of disciplined, high-effort hockey that defined their third period against Sweden, they may very well be on their way to another gold medal.
Canada’s victory over Sweden was not just a routine group-stage win—it was a statement. And that statement was delivered, in large part, by a teenager with ice in his veins and a bright future ahead.
Macklin Celebrini has ignited a debate that will continue well into the NHL season and beyond. Whether he ends up better than Bedard, McDavid, or any of the names thrown around online, one thing is certain:
Hockey has found its next big story—and he wears the maple leaf with pride.
Also Read: When Will Macklin Celebrini Make His NHL Debut? Sharks’ Season and More
Table of Contents
Macklin Celebrini’s Defining Moment on the World Stage
For Macklin Celebrini, this game was more than just another international fixture—it was a defining moment.1
His poised finish in the third period gave Canada a 4-3 lead they would not relinquish, with an insurance goal coming moments later.
What stood out wasn’t just his goal but the timing and impact of his contributions. With the score tied and the stakes high, Celebrini’s ability to break through Sweden’s defense and convert under pressure showcased a maturity well beyond his age.
In a tournament filled with seasoned NHL veterans, Celebrini’s cool demeanor and high hockey IQ were impossible to ignore.
I’m better than Bedard..
— Macklin Celebrini (@71MCelebrini) March 14, 2025
Canada Tops Group A with Grit and Precision
On Tuesday at the IIHF World Championship, Team Canada defeated Sweden 5–3 in a thrilling Group A showdown that not only secured Canada’s place in the quarterfinals but also cemented their position at the top of the group.
This high-stakes matchup lived up to expectations, offering fast-paced action, elite-level hockey, and breakout performances.
While the entire Canadian roster played with discipline and determination, it was 18-year-old Macklin Celebrini who stole the spotlight with a clutch performance, scoring the game-winning goal that tipped the scales in Canada’s favor.
Is Macklin Celebrini the Best Since Crosby?
Following Canada’s win, a post by JFreshHockey ignited a spirited conversation on X (formerly Twitter).2
The question posed was simple yet provocative: “How many 18-year-olds have been better than Macklin Celebrini since Sidney Crosby?”
JFresh suggested that perhaps only Connor McDavid could be considered more impressive at the same age. The hockey community, always ready with strong opinions, quickly jumped into the fray.
Fan Reactions: “Better Than Bedard?”
The idea that Celebrini might surpass even Connor Bedard, the 2023 first overall draft pick and reigning teenage hockey sensation, sparked immediate reactions.
Some fans were skeptical, while others were enthusiastic:
“Better than Bedard?” one user asked incredulously.
“I wouldn’t even say McDavid—the IMPACT Celebrini has at 18 is more VALUABLE than McDavid at the same age!” another fan proclaimed.
“Just Bedard and McDavid. Celebrini and Bedard may be tied,” said another, trying to find middle ground.
These comparisons may be premature, but they underscore the high expectations surrounding Celebrini’s trajectory.
A Look at the Legends: Where Does Celebrini Rank?
To truly evaluate Celebrini’s impact, it’s important to contextualize him among other teenage prodigies.
Since Crosby entered the NHL in 2005, we’ve seen a string of elite young talents rise to prominence.
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Connor McDavid – Universally regarded as a generational player.
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Auston Matthews – Scored four goals in his NHL debut.
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Nathan MacKinnon – A Calder Trophy winner with explosive speed and agility.
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Patrick Kane – Consistent offensive force from day one.
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John Tavares – Long hailed as Crosby’s heir apparent during his junior career.
Some fans believe Celebrini is on par with these stars or perhaps even ahead when comparing performances at 18.
However, each of these players had unique contexts—league quality, team situation, and role—that complicate direct comparisons.
Macklin Celebrini: Rookie Stats and Value Beyond Numbers
A fan pointed out an important nuance in the Celebrini debate:
“Patrick Kane, MacKinnon, Matthews, and Elias Pettersson all 17/18 when drafted and won rookie of the year with similar stats. Celebrini hasn’t been a stand-out star but is on pace with everyone else.”
That fan emphasized that it’s not just about statistical production, but about work ethic, leadership, and impact on winning.
By joining Team Canada for the World Championship, Celebrini demonstrated a willingness to take on responsibility early—something that doesn’t show up on the stat sheet but resonates with coaches, teammates, and fans.
Michkov’s Name Enters the Chat
Another young phenom fans brought into the conversation was Matvei Michkov, the Russian forward whose electrifying style and high hockey IQ have captivated scouts and fans alike.
“Michkov comes to mind; he is just getting started, but this kid has IT! Determination, strength, feistiness… He wants to be the best player in the NHL.”
Michkov’s name adds another dimension to the Celebrini discourse. Both are elite talents with different skillsets—Michkov more flamboyant and flashy, Celebrini more composed and two-way minded. Comparing them may ultimately depend on the kind of game a fan values more.
The Intangibles: Leadership, Maturity, and Poise
What separates elite players isn’t always goals and assists—it’s leadership, vision, and poise under pressure.
Celebrini’s game-winning goal against Sweden wasn’t just a display of skill, but a moment of calm in chaos, something rarely seen in teenagers on an international stage.
Several fans noted this, with one writing:
“His work ethic and joining the Worlds roster is what will put him ahead of Bedard though.”
Indeed, joining a senior men’s team and excelling against older, stronger, more experienced players is no small feat. Celebrini’s willingness to put himself in that environment speaks volumes about his character and ambition.
A Bright NHL Future Ahead
While Celebrini has yet to make his NHL debut, it’s clear that scouts and fans alike see a top-tier talent in the making.
He is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, and his performance at the World Championship has only solidified that status.
General managers across the NHL are watching closely, knowing that landing Celebrini could reshape a franchise for years to come.
Every generation wants to crown “the next Crosby,” but history has shown how difficult and sometimes unfair those comparisons can be. Crosby was a once-in-a-generation talent who lived up to—if not exceeded—immense expectations.
To compare Celebrini directly to Crosby now may be premature, but the fact that such comparisons are even being discussed is a testament to how special Celebrini might be.
Also Read: Macklin Celebrini’s Mother Robyn Shares Childhood Hockey Story of Prospective No. 1 Draft Pick
Macklin Celebrini Adds to His Rising Star Power
Another standout in the game was Macklin Celebrini, the projected No. 1 pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.3
The young forward scored after receiving a crisp pass from Sidney Crosby, marking a symbolic moment of generational talent converging on the ice.
Celebrini’s poise and positioning belied his age, and his goal gave Canada a crucial cushion heading into the third period.
The connection between Crosby and Celebrini wasn’t just productive—it was symbolic. With Crosby nearing the twilight of his international career and Celebrini just beginning his, the assist represented a metaphorical passing of the torch for Hockey Canada.
Crosby’s Veteran Leadership Remains Invaluable
Sidney Crosby’s impact on the game went far beyond his two assists. As team captain, his leadership continues to serve as a guiding force for a roster that mixes established NHL stars with young, up-and-coming talent.
Crosby’s experience in high-stakes international play has been a steadying presence for a Canadian team with gold medal aspirations.
After the game, Crosby spoke to the importance of team chemistry and playing with structure. “We’re learning how to win together, and games like this show what we’re capable of when we stay committed to the system,” he said.
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Jared Spurgeon Makes Quiet Yet Key Contributions
While much of the postgame attention focused on Canada’s offensive firepower, defenseman Jared Spurgeon also played a pivotal role.
The Minnesota Wild captain picked up two assists, but more importantly, provided reliable coverage in Canada’s zone. His calm puck management and ability to start clean breakouts helped keep Sweden from sustaining offensive pressure.
Spurgeon’s performance exemplified the kind of low-profile, high-impact contribution that championship teams rely on—solid, mistake-free hockey that allows others to take offensive risks.
Jordan Binnington Holds Firm in Net
Goaltender Jordan Binnington had a solid outing between the pipes, turning aside 25 shots in the victory.
While not under siege for much of the game, Binnington came up with key stops at critical moments, including a breakaway save in the second period that preserved Canada’s lead.
His performance gave the team confidence heading into the quarterfinals, as goaltending remains one of the most scrutinized positions in international hockey. With Binnington in form, Canada looks to have a reliable last line of defense.
Macklin Celebrini: Sweden Starts Strong but Fades Late
Sweden entered the contest with hopes of claiming the top spot in Group A, but faltered down the stretch.
After trading goals early in the game and keeping things tight through two periods, the Swedes couldn’t match Canada’s pace and discipline in the third period.
Jacob Markstrom made 19 saves but was left exposed on several occasions as Canada’s forecheck overwhelmed Sweden’s defensive structure.
Sweden’s early energy and physicality gave them an edge in the first period, but as the game progressed, Canada’s tactical discipline and skill took over.
Dean Evason Praises Commitment to Structure
Head coach Dean Evason emphasized the importance of playing the “right way” after the win, especially following a shootout loss to Finland just a day prior.
“Obviously, we scored some big goals, but we were committed to doing the right things in our defensive zone and through the neutral zone,” Evason told Sportsnet. “Our third period tonight was exactly how we need to play regardless of the score.”
Evason’s message was clear: while offensive talent is important, Canada’s path to gold will rely on structure, responsibility, and consistency across all three zones.
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Lessons Learned from Loss to Finland
Monday’s shootout loss to Finland served as a wake-up call for Canada. Though the point gained from the shootout was enough to keep them atop the standings with 19 points, the performance raised concerns about defensive lapses and mental focus. Against Sweden, those concerns were addressed.
The team tightened its gaps, controlled play through the neutral zone, and protected the slot with much more urgency.
The improvement from one day to the next showed that Canada is capable of adapting quickly—an essential trait in a short tournament.
Special Teams Provide a Boost
While Canada’s even-strength play was strong, their power play and penalty kill also contributed significantly.
The power play clicked at key moments, helping build momentum and stretch Sweden’s defense. On the penalty kill, Canada’s forwards pressured the puck well, and defensemen cleared the crease effectively.
Special teams can be the difference-maker in closely contested international games, and Tuesday’s performance suggested that Canada is trending in the right direction.
Depth Shines Through in Tight Moments
One of Canada’s greatest advantages in international play is its depth, and that was on full display against Sweden.
With contributions coming from all four lines and three defensive pairings, the team was able to roll its lineup with confidence.
Whether it was fourth-liners grinding out shifts or top-line stars generating offense, the entire team played with a shared sense of purpose. That balance bodes well as the stakes rise in the elimination round.
Also Read: Who Are Macklin Celebrini Parents? Meet Mother Robyn And Father Rick Celebrini
