WJC Wrap: Lottery Teams Dream of Drafting Macklin Celebrini

Macklin Celebrini put up five points in Canada’s 10-0 win over Latvia on Wednesday which of course will only ramp up the desire to draft him first overall. Of course, the Chicago Blackhawks are one of those teams hoping that things bounce the right way to grab another great player with the top pick.

But to pour a bit of cold water on it–Macklin Celebrini and Canada did beat up on a supremely overmatched team. But he does have six points in two games, including a pair of goals. He leads all scorers in the WJC’s right now, and will have a day to breathe before taking on Sweden and Germany next.

Like Connor Bedard was last season, Celebrini is one of the most watched players in the World Juniors simply because of the anticipation of where he’ll be drafted.

Lucky for Blackhawks fans, there’s another guy who’s garnering attention and already in the fold.

Adam Gajan Pitches Shutout in Slovakia Victory

There were questions as to whether or not it was a reach to take Gajan so early in the 2023 Draft. With another stellar performance that this time was a shutout, it might start putting those thoughts to rest.

With a .962 save percentage after two games, Gajan backstopped the Slovakian 3-0 victory with 36 saves, and a couple spectacular ones to boot.

This is hardly a fluke. Gajan was great a day earlier and has been strong for Green Bay of the USHL, too. So those trying to write it off as maybe just a bit too early at 35th overall could change their minds if Gajan continues to stand on his head.