Gabriel Pizza Gameday Build-Up: Senators aim for split against Marlies after OT loss

Sunday, October 18, 2026, vs. Toronto Marlies (NHL Affiliate: Toronto Maple Leafs)

The Set-Up

The Belleville Senators wrap up their long weekend of hockey on the road in Toronto this afternoon, looking to get some revenge on the Marlies after last night’s overtime loss. The Senators fell 5-4 in a hard-fought, back-and-forth contest, highlighted by first goals of the season from Oskar Pettersson and Eskild Bakke Olsen, along with multi-assist performances from Xavier Bourgault and Samuel Blais. Toronto’s leaders also made their mark, as Logan Shaw, Vinni Lettieri, and Brendan Brisson each chipped in with a goal and an assist to help the Marlies earn the extra point. Belleville’s record now stands at 2-2-2-0 on the season, good for six points and a tie for fifth place in the North Division and 16th overall in the league. Following last night’s game, head coach Andrew Campbell spoke about how narrow the margins were in a tightly contested matchup. “It was a pretty even hockey game. Both sides were very competitive, made some plays, scored some goals, and it boils down to a one-shot game. In overtime, we have a two-on-none and we can’t convert, and they come down and score, so it is what it is.” When asked what the key would be to earning two points this afternoon, Eskild Bakke Olsen emphasized the importance of recovery and playing a smart game. “We gotta recover, and try to get a good sleep, learn from our mistakes, and move on. We have already played two games, so if we can come out hard tomorrow, be smart, and try to use our energy right over sixty minutes, then I think we can get two points.” Now travelling to Toronto and playing their third consecutive game, the BSens will look to finish the weekend strong in what should be another close and entertaining Battle of Ontario. Puck drop is set for 4:00 p.m. as Belleville and Toronto meet for the second of ten matchups this season.

Previous History

The Senators start this rivalry off with a 0-0-1-0 record against the Marlies this season. All-time, Belleville now holds a 49-47-5-6 record against its North Division conterpart. The two sides will meet again on November 1st at CIBC Place in Belleville, renewing a battle that has produced plenty of competitive matchups over the years.

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

Hoyt Stanley picked up his first point of the season with an assist last night, marking an early milestone in his first full AHL campaign. The 21-year-old defenceman brings strong mobility and poise with the puck, using his skating ability to navigate pressure and help transition play. The West Vancouver native carries the puck with confidence and can make a breakout pass to help move the Senators up ice, qualities that have also earned him opportunities with Ottawa this season. Puck management will be especially important as Belleville wraps up a demanding stretch of hockey, and Stanley’s ability to move the play up ice efficiently could prove valuable. As he builds on his first point, he will look to make an impact at both ends of the ice once again this afternoon.

Vinni Lettieri has been a consistent offensive contributor for the Toronto Marlies to open the season, recording at least one point in every game so far, including three multi-point performances. The veteran forward has showcased his playmaking ability and offensive instincts, finding ways to make an impact on the scoresheet night after night. His consistency has helped fuel Toronto’s attack early in the campaign, providing a reliable presence in the Marlies’ lineup as the team has gotten off to a 4-1-0-0 start. With Lettieri continuing to produce at a steady pace, he will be a key player to watch as Toronto looks to maintain their strong start and build momentum throughout the season.

Follow the Action:

Puck drop tonight is set for 4:00 p.m. ET from Coca Cola Coliseum in Toronto, Ontario. Broadcast coverage begins at 3:45 p.m. with David Foot and Zach Staden 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.