Exciting Matchup: Ducks Face Off Against Kraken in Game One Gameday Preview

NHL Season Opener: Ducks’ New Era Begins under Joel Quenneville against Lane Lambert’s Team

Exciting Debuts for Quenneville and Lambert

The NHL season kicks off with an exhilarating matchup as new head coaches Joel Quenneville and Lane Lambert face off. The Anaheim Ducks are eager to make a strong start under Quenneville’s leadership, showcasing new acquisitions Chris Kreider, Mikael Granlund, and Ryan Poehling. Anticipation surrounds 19-year-old Beckett Sennecke, expected to make his NHL debut.

“Excited,” expressed Sennecke. “That’s basically one word to kind of sum it up. I’m excited to get out there and play.” Echoing this sentiment, Kreider remarked, “You work your whole life towards a moment like that, so I just try to soak it in and enjoy every second.”

Quenneville’s Observations on Sennecke’s Progress

Quenneville praised Sennecke’s performance in training camp. “It seemed like every day, he got a little bit more confident with the puck and stronger, using his size and strength,” Quenneville noted. The coach highlighted the young player’s improved confidence and strategic positioning on a line with significant offensive potential.

Line Adjustments Amid Injury

With forward Ryan Strome sidelined by an upper-body injury, Granlund will shift from second line wing to center on the third line. Consequently, Sennecke will step up to fill Granlund’s previous position, and Sam Colangelo will join the fourth line.

“Granny returns to the middle, filling that gap,” said Quenneville. “The centermen settle into their roles with Granlund now central.”

Quenneville’s Return to Regular Season Coaching

The season opener marks Quenneville’s first regular season game in nearly four years after his suspension and reinstatement concerning the Chicago Blackhawks scandal. “The first game brings excitement—like the first day of school,” shared Quenneville. “It’s wonderful to be back and get started.”

Projected Lines