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Ducks GM Pat Verbeek reveals reasoning behind shock Beckett Sennecke pick
The Anaheim Ducks went for a surprise selection by drafting Oshawa Generals forward Beckett Sennecke with the third overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Even the player himself was shocked when his name was announced at No. 3.
While Sennecke was expected to be a first-round pick, mock drafts did not predict the player making a top-five selection. Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek praised Sennecke's exceptional individual skills and hockey IQ and explained why they originally went for Sennecke.
"What we love about the player is the skating ability and the hockey sense," Verbeek said in the post draft interview. "His individual skill level is off the charts and he's the type of player who can play any game on the ice, whether it's a physical game, a skill game or a fast-paced game."
The Ducks GM acknowledged the potential for growth in Sennecke's game and mentioned that all the player needs on his repertoire is to make himself stronger.
"There's a lot of upside," Verbeek said. "He already possesses a lot of elite skills, now it's a matter of, like all these young kids, just get in the gym and put some weight on and get stronger."
Beckett Sennecke opens up on being selected No. 3 overall
The Oshawa Generals forward was visibly thrilled after his draft selection. He is already excited to bring his best game to Anaheim and is confident in his skills.
In the post-draft interview, Beckett Senneck mentioned that the Ducks were looking for a player with both skill and physicality, and he believes he fits that role perfectly.
"They're obviously drafting big and I fit that role," Sennecke said. "They want skill and physicality and I'm going to bring that to the team. Whenever they think I'm ready, I'm going to hop in and do my job."
When asked if his outstanding performance in the OHL playoffs last season influenced the Ducks' decision to select him, Sennecke agreed it was likely a significant factor.
"I think it was probably the driving factor," Sennecke said. "They want someone who produces in the playoffs and shows up when it matters most and I do think I'm a playoff performer."
When Sennecke’s name was called, the youngster was captured surprised and in disbelief on the camera. Speaking of that moment, he said:
"I heard the 'from Oshawa' before my name was called, and it was just butterflies and chills."
The youngster will now be looking to improve for the better in his next seasons and make a place for himself on the Ducks lineup.
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