Aiming for the Top in Chicoutimi
Lucas Beckman, an 18-year-old goaltender, is determined to excel in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). This season has been challenging for him as he played for the struggling Baie-Comeau Drakkar.
Aiming for the Top in Chicoutimi
Beckman recorded a .905 save percentage but faced a difficult season with a record of 4-14-3 by the holidays. After a significant trade on December 27, Beckman joined the top-ranked Saguenéens de Chicoutimi. The trade involved him moving in exchange for defenseman Xavier Daigle, goaltender Mathias Hernandez, and multiple draft picks.
Trade Details
- Date: December 27
- From: Baie-Comeau Drakkar
- To: Saguenéens de Chicoutimi
- In exchange for:
- Xavier Daigle (Defenseman, 20 years old)
- Mathias Hernandez (Goaltender, 18 years old)
- First-round pick in the 2028 QMJHL Draft
- Second-round pick in the 2026 QMJHL Draft
Beckman had been sidelined with mononucleosis since late November, which delayed his ability to play. Eager to contribute to his new team, he joined the Saguenéens on a trip to Halifax. He expressed excitement about traveling with his new squad and thanked them for their support during his recovery.
Academic and Personal Adjustments
Beckman has been attending online classes, which facilitated his transfer to Chicoutimi. This move benefits his family, as his parents live in Montreal, reducing their travel time to see him.
Career Stats and Ambitions
In his young career, Beckman has participated in 95 games, combining regular season and playoff appearances. He has one year of junior eligibility left, adding value to his new team. Despite a challenging season in Baie-Comeau, where he was a backup goalie, he learned essential lessons during playoff runs.
During the 2023-24 season, he played nine games with Baie-Comeau, achieving seven victories with a .938 save percentage and a goals-against average of 1.32. His performance contributed to the Drakkar setting a franchise record with 53 wins that season.
Looking Ahead
Beckman is keen to earn his spot with the Saguenéens. In his absence, fellow goaltender Raphaël Précourt has maintained a goals-against average of 2.21 and a .910 save percentage. Beckman views the competition as beneficial, stating that it fosters improvement for the entire team.
As he prepares for his first game with Chicoutimi, Beckman is hopeful about achieving success. “I want to win, and I’ll work hard to contribute,” he stated, emphasizing his competitive spirit and readiness to take on the challenge ahead.