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Macklin Celebrini Inspires Connor McDavid to Elevate Game

2026-07-09 · Macklin Celebrini · Player Focus

Macklin Celebrini Inspires Connor McDavid to Elevate Game

Macklin Celebrini is being looked to as an example for Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid to improve his game. Former NHL AGM Craig Button suggested McDavid watch Celebrini to see how a young player can make an impact in the league.

What happened?

Craig Button questioned the Oilers' direction and advised McDavid to look to proven winners like Sidney Crosby and Macklin Celebrini. Button made these comments while discussing the Oilers' hiring of Mike Babcock as their new coach on TSN OverDrive.

Button said McDavid should watch tapes of Crosby to learn what it takes to win. He also recommended watching Celebrini to see how a young player can come into the league and play effectively.

Why it matters for Macklin Celebrini

Macklin Celebrini's play is being recognized as an example for other players to follow. His performance has sparked advice for Connor McDavid to elevate his game and become a successful winner.

The Oilers were just two wins away from the Cup in 2024 but appeared to take a step backward in management's eyes. Button highlighted that Mike Babcock hasn't won a Stanley Cup playoff series since 2013.

What comes next?

Connor McDavid is ready to push for a challenge under Mike Babcock. McDavid gave his stamp of approval for the hiring and stated that he's ready to take on the challenge under Babcock.

McDavid is coming off another stellar individual season with the Oilers. However, their postseason was short-lived after a first-round exit to the Anaheim Ducks.

Only time will tell whether Babcock turns out to be the final missing piece in the puzzle for McDavid and the Oilers. Macklin Celebrini's example will likely continue to be watched closely as the season progresses.

Mike Babcock became the 19th head coach in Oilers history. He's the sixth bench boss since McDavid was drafted first overall in the 2015 NHL Draft.

McDavid said he's excited about the challenge to be pushed by a coach because it's been a really long time in Edmonton. He added that he doesn't plan on having that happen to him very much, but when it does, it'll be deserved, and they'll move forward and learn from it.

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