Who is this year's Beckett Sennecke? Two 2026 NHL draft prospects on the rise

Beckett Sennecke stunned the hockey world when the Anaheim Ducks selected him third overall in the 2024 NHL draft. Projected as a mid-first-round pick, his combination of size, skill, skating improvements, and playoff performance in junior hockey captivated the Ducks’ scouting staff. 1 2 Fast forward to his 2025-26 rookie season, and Sennecke delivered 23 goals and 37 assists for 60 points in 82 games, helping the Ducks reach the playoffs. 3

As the 2026 NHL draft approaches, scouts are hunting for similar under-the-radar gems who could leap into the top picks. Two prospects stand out: Wyatt Cullen of the U.S. NTDP and Malte Gustafsson of HV71. Both possess traits reminiscent of Sennecke’s profile—growth potential, consistency, and upside that could propel them higher than current rankings suggest.

Beckett Sennecke’s blueprint for draft success

Sennecke entered the 2024 draft as a 6-foot-3 right winger with intriguing tools but questions about his skating. Anaheim bet on his raw skill and physicality, a gamble that paid off immediately.

His rookie campaign showcased elite production for an 19-year-old. The Toronto native tied for 90th in goals (23) and posted 60 points, proving he could handle NHL minutes right away. 2 Sennecke’s playoff debut added to his allure, displaying the poise that made him a surprise lottery pick.

What made Sennecke’s rise possible? Teams valued his playoff dominance in the OHL and late-season surge. This sets a template for 2026 hopefuls: demonstrate growth and impact in high-stakes tournaments.

Scouts now reference Sennecke when evaluating big wings with projectable games. His story underscores how development curves can shift draft boards dramatically.

For more on draft surprises, check out coverage like Tyus Sparks’ unique path to the 2026 NHL draft, highlighting other intriguing journeys.

Wyatt Cullen: Explosive growth and pedigree

Wyatt Cullen exploded onto the scene at the Under-18 Men’s World Championship, tallying nine points in five games to finish third in scoring and earn all-star honors. 4 The 6-foot-1, 180-pound center/left wing from the U.S. NTDP ranks 13th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s final 2026 rankings. 5

Cullen’s transformation is Sennecke-esque. He joined the NTDP at 5-foot-8 and 146 pounds; now he’s added five inches and 34 pounds, per Central Scouting. 1 This physical leap enhances his deceptive puckhandling and elite vision, making him a transition threat.

His lineage adds intrigue—son of Matt Cullen, who played 1,516 NHL games and won three Stanley Cups with Carolina (2006) and Pittsburgh (2016, 2017). Wyatt blends a high motor with playmaking that fits possession or speed-based systems.

Born just seven days before 2027 eligibility, Cullen’s late birthday gives teams extra development time. Recent buzz has him in top-10 conversations, with scouts saying, “You can’t really stop him.” 4

Key strengths include:

• Exceptional vision and puck control in transition.
• Relentless compete level and playoff-ready skill.
• Proven international dominance at U18 worlds.
• Projectable frame for NHL pro size.

Cullen’s stock mirrors prospects in simulations like our 2026 NHL draft lottery simulation, where risers steal the show. A top-seven nod wouldn’t shock.

Malte Gustafsson: The shutdown blueliner with mobility

Malte Gustafsson, a 6-foot-4, 201-pound left-shot defenseman for HV71, has refined his skating this season, particularly edges and agility—echoing Sennecke’s draft-year improvements. Ranked around 12th-19th in consolidated lists, he’s poised for a first-round leap. 6

Consistency defines Gustafsson. He brings physicality to the net front, wins battles, and maintains pace regardless of scoreline. His shift-to-shift reliability appeals to NHL teams seeking dependable minutes.

In transition, Gustafsson excels: evading forecheckers, driving neutral-zone play, and delivering crisp outlet passes. He’s logged pro minutes in the SHL, showing NHL readiness. 7

As a more defense-minded player, his pest-like zone play pairs with emerging puck-moving instincts. At 17, his projectable game screams top-pair potential.

Standout attributes:

• Elite size and physical engagement.
• Improved agility for a big defender.
• Strong defensive IQ and battle wins.
• Reliable transition facilitation.

If selected high, Gustafsson could make a team’s NHL roster out of camp. His profile fits teams needing blueline stability, much like Sennecke filled a wing need for Anaheim.

For detailed rankings, visit the NHL Central Scouting prospects page. 8

Looking ahead to draft night surprises

The 2026 NHL draft class brims with talent, but Cullen and Gustafsson embody Sennecke’s surprise factor: undervalued rankings masking high-end tools. As lottery odds shake out, teams with early picks may pounce.

Cullen’s meteoric rise and Gustafsson’s pro polish could redefine their draft slots. Watch for U18 tournament echoes and late surges—the recipe for lottery steals.

What does this mean for the draft? Expect bold selections prioritizing upside over consensus boards, just as Anaheim did with Sennecke. The next big riser awaits.