Yeah they’ve absolutely nailed the last few years draft wise but on the bright side 1) we didn’t need to spend 2 first rounders to get our future starter 2) we didn’t fumble a third overall pick and 3)they’ve been under-the-radar in the basement almost as long as we have
Grier became their GM on July 5, 2022. Looking at what Grier's done since, it kinda mimics what Verbeek has done. Grier got rid of prime Timo Meier, most of Hertl's contract (17% retained), and Erik Karlsson.
Grier loaded up on prospects and picks from those three players traded and did something the Ducks haven't... win 1st overall pick. (Bastards!) Goalie Askarov was acquired for potentially two, late first rounders: Edstrom (32nd overall) and Vegas' 2025 first round pick (probably another late first round pick). Two, late first round picks for a former #11 pick in G Askarov is a steal. Here's why, the Sharks traded up to #11 (LD Dickinson) in the 2024 draft for the #14 (Pitt's original pick) and #42 (NJ's original pick). They also now have two young, big LD's in 6'3 Dickinson and 6'4 Mukhamadullin.
As for Sennecke, his small game is able to translate to his bigger frame - which makes him so much more dangerous. And he still might grow another inch or two! Once Sennecke's mind got adjusted to his new height in the 2nd half of the season, then everything clicked. Usually, a half-season bump isn't an ideal record, but going from 5'10 to 6'3 in two seasons isn't a normal growth spurt. Madden's philosophy isn't trying to draft who that player is now, but who that player could be into the future. Also, Lindstrom's back issue is a medical issue the Ducks thought was more of a gamble than Sennecke.
