NHL draft: Ducks select forward Beckett Sennecke with No. 3 pick

The fast-rising prospect, who turned in a scorching stretch run and postseason in the Ontario Hockey League last year, was projected to go several slots later.

The Ducks selected forward Beckett Sennecke with the third overall pick in the NHL draft on Friday, snagging a fast-rising prospect whose ascent continued through draft day.

Though the Ducks had been linked in murmurs to Sennecke, he was widely projected to go several slots below No. 3. The broadcasters at the draft and possibly even Sennecke himself were surprised to hear his name called.

“I didn’t think it was a possibility even, but obviously I’m super happy,” Sennecke told ESPN’s Leah Hextall during the broadcast.

Sennecke was, however, an increasingly attractive prospect as he first underwent a 5-inch growth spurt, sprouting from 5-10 to 6-3. Then, he turned in a scorching stretch run and postseason in the Ontario Hockey League last year. He recorded 10 goals and 22 points in the playoffs after pouring in 10 multi-point games during the final nine weeks of the season, including six performances of three or more points.

The Ducks have another first-round pick (No. 31 overall).

More to come on this story.