Gabriel Pizza Gameday Build-Up: BSens aim to rebound as Marlies roll into Belleville

Saturday, October 17, 2026, vs. Toronto Marlies (NHL Affiliate: Toronto Maple Leafs)

The Set-Up

The Belleville Senators are back in action this afternoon for the middle game of their three-game weekend, facing off against the Toronto Marlies at home. The Senators are coming off a 5-4 overtime loss to Laval last night, despite a hat trick from Kasper Halttunen and 41 saves on 46 shots from Jonas Johansson. Luke Mittelstadt led the way for the Rocket, scoring the game-winning goal and adding two assists to propel Laval past Belleville. The loss drops the BSens to 2-2-1-0 on the season, and they’ll look to reset as the Marlies visit CIBC Place for the first time this season. The reigning Calder Cup champions have enjoyed a solid start to the year, winning their last three games after dropping their season opener against the Rochester Americans. Toronto is coming off a 5-2 road win over the Hamilton Hammers on Sunday, led by a hat trick from Brendan Brisson and a four-assist performance from Logan Shaw. The Senators will look to bounce back quickly, and defenceman Scott Harrington emphasized the importance of regrouping following last night’s loss. “That’s the good part about the schedule. We’ll regroup and come back in the morning, watch some video and correct our mistakes. It’s nice we have two other opportunities this weekend to grab some points and turn this around.” The first game of this weekend’s Battle of Ontario gets underway at 4:00 p.m.

Previous History

Belleville has fared well against Toronto dating back to last season, posting a 5-3-2-0 record while outscoring the Marlies 34-32 at even strength. The last meeting between the two sides came on January 10th, when the Senators secured a 6-3 home victory. Philippe Daoust recorded a goal and an assist in that matchup, while Jackson Parsons turned aside 26 of 29 shots to help lead Belleville to the win. All-time, Belleville holds a 47-38-5-6 record against the Marlies heading into this afternoon’s contest.

Roster Notes

As of this morning, there are no roster changes to report. Full roster and lineup details will be available closer to puck drop through the team’s social media channels (@BellevilleSens).

Who to Watch

After having his three-game point streak snapped last night, Ryan Suzuki is one to watch this afternoon. The 25-year-old centre recorded his first goal in a Senators uniform against Syracuse before finding the back of the net again against Utica, bringing his season total to three points through five games. The former first round selection spent the past two seasons with the Chicago Wolves, posting 107 points across 135 regular-season games. His playmaking ability and offensive instincts give Belleville another option down the middle, and he’ll look to get back on the scoresheet as the Senators continue their three-game weekend.

Brendan Brisson has wasted little time making his mark with the Toronto Marlies, opening the season with five goals and two assists for seven points through his first four games. The 24-year-old forward is coming off a 37-point campaign (19G, 18A) in 66 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack, where he continued to develop his offensive game. Brisson signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs in September, opening a new chapter in his professional career. The forward has already recorded a hat trick this season, showcasing the scoring touch that makes him a dangerous offensive threat. With his strong start in Toronto, Brisson is a player to watch as the Marlies look to keep their momentum rolling.

Follow the Action:

Puck drop tonight is set for 4:00 p.m. ET from CIBC Place in Belleville, Ontario. Broadcast coverage begins at 3:45 p.m. with David Foot and Zach McGibbon which can be seen on AHLTV on FloHockey.

Once again, the full 2026-27 Belleville Senators schedule is available by clicking here.

More information on season seat memberships, Sens on Demand ticketing, premium seating, the Business Edge program, and more can be found by visiting the Belleville Sens Website.