Gabriel Pizza Gameday Build-Up: Senators host Marlies in last game before the Holiday Break

Sunday, December 21, 2025 vs Toronto Marlies (NHL Affiliate: Toronto Maple Leafs)

The Set-Up:

’Twas the last game before Christmas and all through the rink, a rivalry waited, poised right on the brink. The Senators stood ready as the Marlies came to town, meeting for the seventh time in this season-long showdown. In the standings, the margin is narrow and tight, with both clubs jockeying for position each night. Every shift carries weight, every point has a say, as the calendar turns and the stretch drive comes into play. It’s the second game of three straight between these familiar foes, with little left hidden that the other doesn’t know. From the drop of the puck to the final horn’s chime, it’s Sens versus Marlies — a holiday clash right on time.

Previous History:

The Sens overtime loss in Toronto yesterday was their first defeat on the road against the Marlies this season. Belleville is 3-1-2-0 against the Marlies this season, but has yet to win at home against Toronto during this campaign, falling 2-1 in overtime during the home opener in October, and dropping a tight 4-3 decision earlier this month. Ahead of their 92nd lifetime meeting, Belleville is 44-36-5-6, and 21-20-1-4 on home ice.

Roster Notes:

It was another quiet night on the transaction wire for the Senators, with no moves announced as of publishing time this morning. Rookie defencemen Matt Andonovski and Carter Yakemchuk, and forward Tyler Boucher remain on the Belleville injured list. Forwards Stephen Halliday and Olle Lycksell, and goaltender Leevi Merilainen are all still up with Ottawa.

Full roster and lineup details will be available closer to puck drop on the Sens social channels (@BellevilleSens).

Who to Watch:

Xavier Bourgault has had his vision and passing touch on display over the past four games, collecting five assists over that span, including two in Toronto yesterday. Bourgault also sits fifth in shots on goal in the league, with 82 through 30 games. Arthur Kaliyev extended his point streak to five games (four goals, one assist) and is now tied for the most goals in the American Hockey League. He also continues to lead the league in power play goals (10) and shots on goal (109). The first year Senator is also two points off the AHL’s points lead. And, defenceman Dennis Gilbert notched his first two points in return from an NHL recall, collecting a couple of assists in Toronto yesterday.

Toronto’s Jake Quillan extended his point streak to five games yesterday (two goals, five assists), finding the net once and adding a helper. Travis Boyd has continued his strong season, registering five points (two goals, three assists) over his last four games. And, Bo Groulx has scored in three straight for the Marlies.

At the rink:

It’s the final home game before the holiday break, so be sure to get to the rink and make some noise! Fans who need to finish up their last-minute Christmas shopping can stop by the Locker Room Store or Gate 2 merchandise stand to pick up the latest styles of Sens’ gear, including the limited edition Rien À Dire x Belleville Sens t-shirt collaboration. 

Follow the Action:

Puck drop tonight is set for 3:00 p.m. ET from CAA Arena in Belleville, Ontario. Broadcast coverage begins at 3:50 ET with David Foot and Brock Ormond, and is available on AHLTV via FloHockey or free to listen on the Belleville Sens Entertainment Network.

Ticket Info:

Tickets for all Belleville Sens 2025-26 home games are now on sale via Ticketmaster or at the Belleville Sens Box Office located inside the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre. Details on season seat memberships, flex packs, premium seating, the Business Edge Program, and more can be found by visiting the Belleville Sens Website. 

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