Macklin Celebrini, the San Jose Sharks’ center and the top choice in the 2024 NHL draft, is currently undergoing assessment for a lower-body injury, causing him to miss the team’s practice on Friday.

Coach Ryan Warsofsky indicated that it’s uncertain whether Celebrini will play in the Sharks’ home matchup on Saturday against the Anaheim Ducks, as he is still being evaluated. Celebrini had been dealing with a lower-body issue throughout both training camp and preseason. Warsofsky did not offer further details on the situation.

In his NHL debut, Celebrini made a memorable entrance by scoring a goal and providing an assist during the Sharks’ 5-4 overtime defeat to the St. Louis Blues at home on Thursday.

The goal occurred 7:01 into the game, originating from a pass he attempted from the right circle to his teammate William Eklund in the slot. The puck bounced off Blues defenseman Matt Kessel’s leg and found its way to the net, eluding goaltender Joel Hofer.

This goal ranks as the second-fastest by a No. 1 draft pick in their debut, only behind Mario Lemieux, who scored just 2:59 into his first game for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

At age 18 years and 119 days, Celebrini became the sixth youngest player to score in an NHL debut.

He recorded his first assist at the 17:14 mark of the first period, setting up Tyler Toffoli.

Last season, he played his freshman year at Boston University, achieving an impressive 64 points with 32 goals and 32 assists across 38 games. At just 17, he became the youngest recipient of the Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the top men’s player in the NCAA.