The Buffalo Sabres have a unique opportunity to select the best player available with the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, if they decide to retain it. While the spotlight is often on the top 10 picks, the 11th spot still offers a wealth of talented prospects.
One such prospect is Beckett Sennecke, who stands out as a compelling choice. Playing for the Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Sennecke tallied 27 goals and 68 points in 63 games, and impressively added 22 points in 16 playoff games. His performance has pushed him into consideration for the top half of the first round.
Evaluating Sennecke’s Strengths
Sennecke’s attributes are impressive. At 6-foot-3 and 180 pounds, he has the potential to grow even stronger, making him a formidable presence on the ice. His relentless pursuit of the puck and physicality could pose significant challenges for opponents.
Beyond his size, Sennecke’s offensive skills and creativity are notable. He excels in controlling the puck in tight spaces, receiving difficult passes, and finding open teammates. Despite being a larger winger, he boasts good straight-line speed and edgework, making him hard to knock off balance. His complete skill set and potential make him a desirable prospect for scouts.
Areas for Improvement
Sennecke’s primary areas for improvement are typical for his age. He needs to add bulk to his 6-foot-3 frame, as he showed signs of fatigue as the season wore on—a common issue for younger players. He can also be overly self-reliant at times, opting for one-on-one plays instead of utilizing his teammates. Enhancing his defensive game will also be important as he progresses, though he already demonstrates strong forechecking abilities.
Sennecke’s Potential Fit
Sennecke would be an excellent pick at 11th overall for several reasons. His size would be a valuable addition to a Sabres roster with many smaller forwards. As he develops, he could become a top-six player, starting as an energetic forechecker and eventually using his skills and size to produce at a high level. Even at a minimum, he should become a reliable middle-six winger, capable of adapting to various roles within the lineup.
Projecting Sennecke’s Career in Buffalo
Sennecke’s attributes align well with the Sabres’ needs. His size, skating ability, and puck-handling skills make him a promising addition. If drafted by the Sabres, he would likely spend additional time in junior leagues and perhaps a year in Rochester to build his strength. Ultimately, he has the potential to become a top-line winger, with the capability of scoring 70-80 points per season. His combination of tenacity, size, and creativity makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft.