Grier Explains How Sharks Can Protect Rookies Celebrini, Smith

Grier Explains How Sharks Can Protect Rookies Celebrini, Smith originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area

With the addition of two key prospects – centers Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith – the Sharks already look much more exciting.

However, the team is aware of the importance of building the roster around this pair of recent first-round draft picks so they can develop properly at the NHL level.

During a virtual press conference on July 6, San Jose general manager Mike Grier explained how the organization is comfortable with its roster’s position to protect Smith and Celebrini, both physically and mentally, when they enter the NHL.

Given the top billing of the two youngsters — especially Celebrini, the 2024 No. 1 overall pick — Grier expects to see opponents play aggressively against them.

However, Grier is confident in the Sharks’ ability to physically tackle opposing players and protect their rising stars from any foul play.

“I think the way the league is now, I’m sure the teams will play [Smith and Celebrini] tough,” Grier told the reporter. “But I think we have enough team resilience right now to protect these guys in those situations.”

Grier explicitly mentioned winger Givani Smith as a source of toughness on the San Jose roster who could play an important role in these instances.

Another important key to developing the Sharks’ prospects is surrounding them with experienced veterans who can serve as assets on and off the ice. Veteran right back Tyler Toffoli, one of San Jose’s players primary free agent signings this offseason, he was signed for exactly that reason.

“[Toffoli is] a proven goalscorer. He will be good for our young centers,” Smith explained, declining to state whether Toffoli would play on the same line as Celebrini. “He knows how to play. It stays open. It will be good to have the presence of a veteran who has been through the ups and downs of the season.”

Toffoli also has an invaluable milestone on his resume: winning the 2014 Stanley Cup while playing for the Los Angeles Kings. Likewise, forward Barclay Goodrow – another offseason addition returning to San Jose – won back-to-back championships with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021.

“[Toffoli and Goodrow] Having won World Cups is an invaluable thing to have in the room,” added Grier. “I don’t think you can really underestimate how important it is to have people who have gone through a tough task and come out at the end holding the Cup. … We’re lucky to have these guys.”

The Sharks hope the combination of experience and grit on their roster will help make the NHL transition as smooth as possible for Smith and Celebrini in their rookie seasons.

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