For Macklin Celebrini, the transition to the NHL presented a logistical challenge alongside the pressures of being a top draft pick.
Drafted first overall by the San Jose Sharks, Celebrini found himself near his family`s adopted home. However, the significant commute from his family residence to the Sharks` arena became a major concern.
With a demanding rookie season ahead, Celebrini needed a practical living solution. Joe Thornton, a Sharks icon and future Hall of Famer, offered an ideal arrangement.
This season, the 18-year-old Celebrini from North Vancouver, B.C., moved in with Thornton and his family, gaining invaluable support as he navigated his first year in the NHL.
`He`s incredibly positive,` Celebrini remarked about Thornton, the top pick from the 1997 draft who retired after the 2021-22 season. `He radiates energy and happiness; it never seems like he has a bad day.`
The rookie NHL experience is unique and often overwhelming. Young players face a new level of competition, heightened expectations, financial responsibilities, and the complexities of professional life off the ice.
While some rookies choose independence, others opt to live with seasoned veterans.
Connor McDavid, for example, lived with Edmonton Oilers veterans Taylor Hall and Luke Gazdic during his rookie season in 2014-15.
Although McDavid was accustomed to living away from home from his time in the Ontario Hockey League, the NHL presented a different environment.
`You`re still just a kid,` McDavid explained. `Entering the NHL, you`re essentially a stranger. The players you`re trying to connect with are established adults with families.`
`And your daily schedule is completely unpredictable.`
McDavid, a three-time Hart Trophy winner, emphasized the importance of veteran mentorship in his early career.
`You need experienced players to guide you and show you the ropes,` McDavid stated. `To understand the routines, the expectations, and how to conduct yourself professionally.`
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins captain, lived with team owner and legend Mario Lemieux during his rookie season and beyond.
`I deeply value that period,` said Crosby, now in his 20th NHL season. `I might have overstayed my welcome a bit, but it was an incredible experience. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be around him, especially during my first year when everything is new.`
Celebrini isn`t the only Sharks rookie benefiting from veteran guidance. Will Smith is currently living with another Hall of Fame caliber player, Patrick Marleau.
Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues also gained valuable experience living with Keith Tkachuk, a former NHL player and father to current NHL players, during the 2018-19 season.
Thomas described that season as an intensive learning period.
`It was a no-brainer,` Thomas said about accepting the Tkachuks` offer. `I was clueless about basic adult tasks like cooking and laundry. I would often come home after games or on off days and watch hockey with Keith.`
`It broadened my understanding of the game through the eyes of someone with extensive success.`
However, this living arrangement isn`t universally preferred. Bo Horvat, who joined the Vancouver Canucks at 18, chose to live independently.
`I`m quite independent,` said Horvat, now with the New York Islanders. `I value my personal routines and prefer not to inconvenience others.`
Last season, Connor Bedard, the No. 1 overall pick for the Chicago Blackhawks, opted for his own place in Chicago.
`I considered it,` Bedard said, referring to living with a veteran. `But having a family member with me a significant portion of the time was a major factor in my decision.`
Wyatt Johnston lived with Dallas Stars veteran Joe Pavelski and his family for the final two seasons of Pavelski`s career.
`He was the ideal mentor,` said Johnston, who enjoyed playing street hockey with Pavelski`s son. `I wouldn`t have gained that experience living alone. It was an invaluable decision in retrospect.`
Celebrini echoes this sentiment. However, he admits his living situation might be different if his family home were closer.
`I would likely have stayed at home,` he concluded. `But the distance is just too great.`
