Beckett Senek wasted no time 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 his talent and prompting the organization to select him with the third overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Oddsmakers as Ducks drop first set canadian betting sites Placing Anaheim’s Stanley Cup odds at +8000 reflects both the club’s youth and the uncertainty surrounding the depth of the Western Conference. The San Jose Sharks are Anaheim’s closest opponent and are ranked at +20,000 as they continue their rebuild.
In Anaheim’s second game, Senek was effective again, tallying a goal and an assist in Saturday’s 7-6 overtime win over the Sharks. The Ducks came out strong in the third quarter, with the rookie making key plays. Senek’s hot start could cost him more than nine games in Anaheim, which would ruin the first year of his entry-level contract — a decision that’s uncertain in training camp.
Sennecke’s early influence
Senek, who turns 18 this year, was selected with the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, a selection that surprised many as some expected him to be a top-10 pick or just outside the top-five. Anaheim scouts clearly see NHL readiness in his size, hockey IQ and offensive instincts.
In two NHL games, Senek has two goals and one assist, taking five shots on goal and holding a tie. His first goal came in the second opener against Seattle on a quick shot from the right wing to complete an odd-man rush. Against San Jose, he converted a Sharks turnover into a third-period goal and set up Troy Terry’s tying goal with a clean pass. Anaheim won 42-34 over San Jose.
Senek’s immediate performance earned him a spot on Anaheim’s second line and on the power play. Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville praised the rookie’s growth in confidence with the puck and defensive responsibilities. Anaheim, still shaping its young core, tends to be patient with prospects, but Senek’s output could speed up the timeline.
The beginning of breaking the duck
Anaheim’s 1-1-0 record to start the season shows promise offensively, but there are also some issues defensively. A 7-6 overtime victory over San Jose was the Ducks’ highest-scoring game in more than a year. Mason McTavish and Leo Carlson each scored three points, with Carlson scoring the game-winner in overtime. Mikael Granlund and Troy Terry each had two assists, and Peter Mrazek allowed six goals on 23 shots. Senek added a goal and an assist, and veteran Chris Krieder scored his first two goals for Anaheim since being acquired by the New York Rangers.
Defensively, the Ducks allowed six goals to the Sharks, three of which came shorthanded. Mrazek, an offseason acquisition, made his first net appearance for the Ducks. Lukas Dostal started the season opener against Seattle. After two games, Anaheim ranks third in the league in goals against and save percentage. Still, strong offensive efforts from emerging players like Senek are early positive signs.
Seneke’s Vision
Beckett Sennecke’s strong performance complicates Anaheim’s lineup decisions. NHL entry-level contracts allow clubs to play up to nine games with juniors before forfeiting the first year of eligibility. With Adam Henrique in the final year of his contract and several rookies still developing, Senek’s consistent scoring and responsible two-way play are turning heads and making the case for a full season stay.
Senek emerged in the OHL with the Oshawa Generals last year, scoring 68 points (28 goals, 40 assists) in 63 games. Scouts praised his offensive vision and shooting ability, but questions remained about his defense and physical readiness to compete in the NHL schedule. He started his NHL career averaging over 15 minutes per game, including over two minutes a night on the power play, and made big plays in clutch situations.
Anaheim continues a larger rebuild that focuses on a high-ceiling, young roster. In addition to Sennecke, the likes of Carlsen and Pavel Mintyukov quickly became central figures in the direction of the club. Anaheim’s 2025-26 Cup odds reflect the risks and potential of relying on such a young team. If Senek’s contributions continue, there may be no reason for management to let him return to junior hockey.
what’s next
Anaheim faces stiff competition the following week, first at home against the Colorado Avalanche and then on the road against the Edmonton Oilers. The Ducks’ coaching staff will keep a close eye on Senek as he faces higher-level opponents. If the rookie keeps up his rhythm, the Ducks’ decision on his future could come sooner than expected.
Senek’s impressive opening weeks were an early highlight for Anaheim. His emergence provides new hope and meaningful options for a Ducks team still charting a long-term course. The remainder of his rookie season will be closely watched as the NHL season gets underway.
