Beckett Sennecke wasted no time in making an impact for the Anaheim Ducks. The rookie winger scored his first NHL goal in the Ducks’ season opener against the Seattle Kraken, giving Anaheim an early glimpse of the talent that led the organization to select him with the third overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. As the Ducks dropped their opener, oddsmakers closed in gambling sites canada have put Anaheim’s Stanley Cup odds at +8000, reflecting both the club’s youth and the uncertainty in a deep Western Conference. The San Jose Sharks, Anaheim’s most recent opponent, are listed at +20,000 as they continue their rebuild.
In Anaheim’s second match, Sennecke again delivered a goal and an assist in one 7-6 victory over the Sharks in extra time on Saturday. The Ducks did well in the third period, with the rookie playing a crucial role. Sennecke’s hot start could keep him above the nine-game threshold in Anaheim, burning the first year of his entry-level contract — a decision that was all but certain in training camp.
Sennecke’s early impact
Sennecke, who turned 18 this year, was selected third overall in the 2024 draft – a selection that surprised many, as some predicted he would go on to finish in the top ten or just outside the top five. Anaheim scouts apparently saw the NHL readiness in his size, hockey IQ and offensive instincts.
Through two NHL games, Sennecke has scored two goals and an assist, fired five shots and maintained an even rating. His first goal came in the second opening period against Seattle, where he capped off an odd rush with a quick snap from the right wing. Against San Jose, he converted a Sharks turnover for a goal in the third period and set up Troy Terry’s equalizer with a crisp pass across the slot. Anaheim defeated San Jose 42-34 in the win.
Sennecke’s immediate production has landed him a role in Anaheim’s second line and power play. Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville praised the rookie’s assertiveness with the puck and growth in defensive responsibility. Anaheim, which still has a young core, tends to be patient with the prospects, but Sennecke’s results could accelerate the timeline.
Cutting off the Ducks’ start
Anaheim’s 1-1-0 record to start the season shows some offensive promise and some defensive questions. The 7-6 win over San Jose was the Ducks’ highest-scoring game in more than a year. Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson led the way with three points each, with Carlsson adding the overtime winner. Mikael Granlund and Troy Terry each had two assists, and Petr Mrazek allowed six goals on 23 shots. Sennecke contributed a goal and an assist, and veteran Chris Krieder scored his first two goals for Anaheim since being acquired from the New York Rangers.
Defensively, the Ducks allowed six goals to the Sharks, including three while shorthanded. Mrazek, acquired in the offseason, made his Ducks debut in net. Lukas Dostal started the season opener against Seattle. After two games, Anaheim is in the bottom third of the league in both goals allowed and save percentage. Still, strong offensive efforts from emerging players like Sennecke are positive indicators early on.
The long view of Sennecke
Beckett Sennecke’s strong performance has made Anaheim’s selection decisions more complex. NHL entry-level contracts allow clubs to play up to nine games against teenagers before burning out their first year of eligibility. With Adam Henrique in the final year of his contract and several prospects still developing, Sennecke’s consistent scoring and responsible two-way play are drawing attention and making a case for a season-long stay.
Last year, Sennecke broke out in the OHL with the Oshawa Generals, tallying 68 points (28 goals, 40 assists) in 63 games. Scouts praised his offensive vision and shooting ability, although questions lingered about his defense and physical readiness for an NHL schedule. To start his NHL career, he is averaging over 15 minutes per game (including over two minutes per night on the power play) and has registered significant shifts in key moments.
Anaheim continues its larger rebuild, focusing on a youthful roster with a high ceiling. In addition to Sennecke, names such as Carlsson and Pavel Mintyukov are quickly becoming central figures in the direction of the club. Anaheim’s chances for the 2025/26 Cup reflect the risks and potential of relying on such a young group. If Sennecke’s contributions continue, management may have little incentive to send him back to junior hockey.
What’s next
Anaheim will face tough competition in the coming week, first welcoming the Colorado Avalanche home and then hitting the road to take on the Edmonton Oilers. The Ducks’ coaching staff will keep a close eye on Sennecke as he faces higher caliber opposition. If the rookie keeps up his pace, the Ducks’ decision on his future could come sooner than expected.
Sennecke’s impressive opening weeks are an early highlight for Anaheim. His emergence has brought new hope and meaningful choices to a Ducks team still charting its long-term path. The remainder of his rookie campaign will be closely watched as the NHL season unfolds.
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