Sharks Beat Rangers 6-5 in OT as Celebrini Stars with Hat Trick

Macklin Celebrini had a standout performance, scoring his second career hat trick and assisting on Will Smith's overtime goal, helping the San Jose Sharks secure their first win of the 2025-26 NHL season with a 6-5 victory over the New York Rangers on Thursday night. The win ended a tough start for San Jose, who had opened the season with four losses and two overtime defeats.

Celebrini scored once in the first period and twice in the second, becoming only the 15th player in NHL history to record multiple hat tricks before turning 20. His skill and poise in front of the net showcased his potential as a key player for the Sharks’ rebuilding efforts. In overtime, he assisted Will Smith’s goal just after a lengthy 5-on-3 power play expired, securing the win.

San Jose is in the midst of a rebuilding phase and is leaning on young stars such as Celebrini, Will Smith, and 2025 second overall pick Michael Misa to lead the team. Celebrini’s leadership on the ice, combined with his offensive production, highlights the Sharks’ promising young core and gives fans hope for the rest of the season.

The New York Rangers, despite three goals from Taylor Raddysh, suffered their fifth consecutive home loss to start the season, a feat not seen since 1943-44. The team struggled to maintain defensive consistency, giving up six goals despite scoring five themselves. Mika Zibanejad and Juuso Parssinen each contributed a goal, adding to the Rangers’ offensive efforts.

New York also faced setbacks as forward Matt Rempe left the game with an upper-body injury after a fight with Ryan Reaves in the first period. Rempe did not return to the ice, limiting the Rangers’ depth and affecting their ability to mount a comeback. The loss of key players continues to challenge the Rangers early in the season.

The overtime period emphasized the Sharks’ resilience and Celebrini’s playmaking ability. Will Smith scored 1:38 into the 3-on-3 OT after Celebrini’s precise pass set up the game-winning goal. The thrilling finish reflected the energy and promise of San Jose’s young roster, showing that the team can compete with established NHL squads despite early struggles.

With their first win, the Sharks gain momentum and confidence as they continue their season, while the Rangers face pressure to reverse their poor start at Madison Square Garden. Both teams will look to adjust strategies and rely on their top performers as they navigate the opening weeks of the 2025-26 season.