![Sennecke sporting the Generals' flashy red, white and blue uniform [Tim Cornett/OHL Images].](https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/20748f9f-8b39-43de-9289-4f6c17a225c3.jpeg)
Sennecke sporting the Generals' flashy red, white and blue uniform [Tim Cornett/OHL Images].By Ella Tsotsos
The Anaheim Ducks made waves by drafting Oshawa Generals' star forward Beckett Sennecke third overall at the 2024 NHL draft. Sennecke's rise to such a high draft position was nothing short of remarkable.
Most draft analysts anticipated he would be picked much later in the first round, making his selection at third slightly shocking. Adding to the excitement, Sennecke had never even had a phone call with the Ducks in the lead-up to the draft, which made his selection all the more thrilling and unexpected.
"It's obviously super emotional, I don't think I expected that," said Sennecke, whose open-mouthed astonishment at the draft went viral.
Simply put, being drafted third overall was a shock to both Sennecke and his family. Though leading up to the draft, there were signs of his greatness.
In 2022-23, his first year in the OHL, Sennecke was named to the league's second all-rookie team after putting up 20 goals and 55 points in 61 games. He was on the smaller side during his rookie campaign and got by using his lethal skill to make plays.
During the 2023-24 season, before his selection, he continued to show his skill with 27 goals and 68 points in 63 games with Oshawa. He also led Oshawa with seven game-winning goals and 207 shots, and he was fourth in team assists (41) and fifth in goals (27). His efforts were aided by a growth spurt that saw him shoot up to 6-foot-4. He combined all his skills with size in what would become a devastating combination.
The Toronto native furthered his development after the draft despite suffering a fractured foot during training, which held him out for over a month. This season, Sennecke led the Generals with 36 goals and 86 points in just 56 games, while also ranking in the top 15 in the OHL in both goals and points. It's safe to say he's a premier player at the OHL level, where he continues to thrive.
Although Sennecke was not included on Team Canada for the 2025 World Junior Championship, he’ll likely have another chance to represent his country. He’s eligible for the 2026 World Juniors, and his skill, skating and strong work ethic will surely see him crack the roster.
"He plays with purpose, drives to the net, has incredible hands and vision,” said Ducks GM Pat Verbeek.
Sennecke’s Generals defeated the Brampton Steelheads in their first round of the OHL playoffs. He quickly racked up seven points in the opening four games of the series before missing games five and six.
His status remains up in the air as the Generals move on to a series against the top-ranked Brantford Bulldogs.