Beckett Sennecke wasted no time making an impact for the Anaheim Geese. The rookie winger scored his first NHL goal within the Geese’ season opener against the Seattle Kraken, giving Anaheim an early glimpse of the talent that led the organization to pick him with the third overall pick within the 2024 NHL Draft. While the Geese dropped their opener, oddsmakers at betting sites Canada have set Anaheim’s Stanley Cup odds at +8000, reflecting each the club’s youth and the uncertainty in a deep Western Conference. The San Jose Sharks, Anaheim’s most up-to-date opponent, are listed at +20000 as they proceed their rebuild.
In Anaheim’s second game, Sennecke delivered again, adding a goal and an assist in a 7-6 extra time win over the Sharks on Saturday. The Geese surged within the third period, with the rookie playing a critical role. Sennecke’s hot start could keep him in Anaheim beyond the nine-game threshold that may burn the primary yr of his entry-level contract—a call that was anything but sure in training camp.
Sennecke’s Early Impact
Sennecke, who turned 18 this yr, was chosen third overall within the 2024 draft—a variety that surprised many, as some projected him to go later in the highest ten or simply outside the highest five. Anaheim’s scouts apparently saw NHL readiness in his size, hockey IQ, and offensive instincts.
Through two NHL games, Sennecke has recorded two goals and an assist, fired five shots, and maintained an excellent rating. His first tally got here within the second opener period against Seattle, ending an odd-man rush with a fast snapshot from the correct wing. Against San Jose, he converted a Sharks turnover for a third-period goal and arrange Troy Terry’s tying marker with a crisp pass across the slot. Anaheim outshot San Jose 42-34 within the win.
Sennecke’s immediate production has earned him a job on Anaheim’s second line and the facility play. Geese head coach Joel Quenneville has praised the rookie’s assertiveness with the puck and growth in defensive responsibility. Anaheim, still shaping a young core, has tended to be patient with prospects, but Sennecke’s output may speed up the timeline.
Breaking Down the Geese’ Start
Anaheim’s 1-1-0 record to begin the season shows offensive promise and a few defensive questions. The 7-6 extra time win over San Jose marked the Geese’ highest-scoring game in over a yr. Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson led the best way with three points each, with Carlsson adding the extra time 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 Recent York Rangers.
Defensively, the Geese allowed six goals to the Sharks, including three while shorthanded. Mrazek, acquired within the offseason, made his Geese debut in net. Lukas Dostal began the season opener against Seattle. After two games, Anaheim ranks within the league’s lower third for each goals allowed and save percentage. Still, strong offensive efforts from emerging players like Sennecke are positive indicators within the early going.
The Long View on Sennecke
Beckett Sennecke’s strong performance has made Anaheim’s roster decisions more complex. NHL entry-level contracts allow clubs to play teenagers as much as nine games before burning the primary yr of eligibility. With Adam Henrique in the ultimate yr of his contract and a number of other prospects still developing, Sennecke’s consistent scoring and responsible two-way play are turning heads and making a case for a full-season stay.
Last yr, Sennecke broke out within the OHL with the Oshawa Generals, tallying 68 points (28 goals, 40 assists) in 63 games. Scouts praised his offensive vision and shooting ability, though questions lingered around his defense and physical readiness for an NHL schedule. To begin his NHL profession, he’s averaging over quarter-hour per game—including greater than two minutes per night on the facility play—and has logged significant shifts in key moments.
Anaheim continues its larger rebuild, specializing in a high-ceiling, youthful roster. Along with Sennecke, names like Carlsson and Pavel Mintyukov are quickly becoming central figures within the club’s direction. Anaheim’s 2025-26 Cup odds reflect the risks and the potential of counting on such a young group. If Sennecke’s contributions proceed, management can have little reason to return him to junior hockey.
What’s Next
Anaheim faces tough competition within the week ahead, first welcoming the Colorado Avalanche at home after which hitting the road to face the Edmonton Oilers. The Geese’ coaching staff will closely monitor Sennecke as he faces higher-caliber opposition. If the rookie maintains his pace, the Geese’ decision regarding his future might be made ahead of anticipated.
Sennecke’s impressive opening weeks are an early highlight for Anaheim. His emergence has provided fresh hope and meaningful selections for a Geese team still plotting its long-term course. The rest of his rookie campaign will probably be watched closely because the NHL season unfolds.