The 2024 NHL draft was known by many draftniks as one that is very hard to predict – with one exception.

The San Jose Sharks did what everyone expected of them, taking Boston University forward Macklin Celebrini with the first overall pick on Friday night at Sphere in Las Vegas. There was not a lot of drama involved in the pick, but it was still a magical moment for the Vancouver-born Celebrini.

“Just a surreal feeling. I’ve dreamed about this moment ever since I was a kid and for it to come true is just an amazing feeling,” Celebrini told ESPN moments after the pick.

Former Sharks captain Joe Thornton made the announcement.

“Super excited he made the pick. Obviously a Sharks’ legend and NHL legend. That was really exciting,” said Celebrini of the Bruins’ No. 1 overall pick in 1997.

The only question now is whether the Hobey Baker winner will return to Commonwealth Avenue for his sophomore season and another kick at an NCAA title or head to straight to the NHL and his new team that’s headed GM Mike Grier, a former Terrier himself.

He’s yet to make a decision, though most observers believe he’s ready to make the jump. Not only did he have an outstanding offensive season as a 17-year-old player for the Terriers, but he was also relied upon in key defensive situations. He was far and away the top prospect in this draft.

If Celebrini does head o San Jose, he’ll be teammates for Boston College rival Will Smith, taken by the Sharks with the fourth overall selection last year.