
From rivals to friends: BU's Macklin Celebrini nets first NHL hat trick for Sharks — with three assists from BC's Will Smith
Despite the young duo's late effort, the Wild won it in the extra period, 8-7.
'We just got a good look at the future, didn't we?' Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky said. 'Was one of [Celebrini's] better games here as of late, obviously with points and whatnot. And then Will [Smith] as well. ... But yeah, we just got a really good look at the future.'
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Celebrini, selected first overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, and Smith, drafted fourth in 2023, have become known as 'two peas in a pod,'
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The rookies have become known for their off-ice friendship and antics.
The former college rivals made a friendly wager on three of BC and BU's games this season. After Smith's Eagles beat Celebrini's Terriers twice in the regular season, Celebrini begrudgingly donned a maroon-and-gold jersey as he walked into San Jose's SAP Center.
Nothing beats a little college rivalry 🦅
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks)
A few weeks later, Celebrini got his revenge. The Terriers beat BC in the Beanpot final, and Smith paid the price, wearing Celebrini's college jersey before a game against the Bruins.
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The 'bet' has officially been fulfilled. 🤝
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks)
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