Gabriel Pizza Gameday Build-Up: Belleville faces tough test against red-hot Comets

Wednesday, November 11, 2026, vs. Utica Comets (NHL Affiliate: New Jersey Devils)

The Set-Up

Playing their first mid-week game of the season, the Belleville Senators hit the road for a single-game trip as they carry a three-game winning streak into Utica to take on the Comets. The Senators are coming in hot after a perfect Hockey Fights Cancer weekend, capped off by their most recent 5-2 victory over the Providence Bruins. That night, Belleville saw production from Kasper Halttunen, who scored his 10th goal of the season, a two-goal performance from Blake Montgomery, and a 31-save effort from Jackson Parsons. The BSens now have 16 points on the year with a 7-5-2-0 record, putting them in the top half of the North Division. The focus now turns to the Utica Comets, who have their own winning streak to protect. Winners of their last five, the Comets are not necessarily a team that dominates offensively, but they are not afraid to play in a tight contest. Utica boasts a mix of young and veteran talent, including former Senator Colin White (seven points in his last four games), along with Lenni Hameenaho (nine points in eleven games) and Matyas Melovsky (five points in seven games). Utica is a fast opponent that will grind for every inch, something head coach Andrew Campbell is well aware of as Belleville looks to grab another two points. “Well, they’re a good team, and won again today (last Saturday). They check very well, they don’t give up much and play really hard. Every game they’ve played has been a goal or two apart and tight checking. It’s going to be a tough test in their building.” This marks the second of eight meetings between the two teams this season, as these rivals face off for the first time in Utica for a 6:00 p.m. start.

Previous History

The first meeting between the two clubs this season went in favour of Utica back on October 11th. The Senators fell 4-2 at home, with goals coming from Ryan Suzuki and Samuel Bolduc, while Utica was led by a two-goal performance from Lenni Hameenaho and 22 saves from David Rittich. All-time, Belleville still holds the edge at 27-25-5-0 as the BSens search for their first win against the Comets since March 7th of last season.

Roster Notes

Belleville made some changes in the crease heading into this evening’s game. To start, goaltender Jonas Johansson was loaned back to Belleville on Sunday after spending some time in Ottawa. The Swede made four appearances, posting a 1-2-0 record with a .848 save percentage and a 4.60 goals-against average. In his place, Jackson Parsons was recalled to the big club on Tuesday. The Embrun, Ontario native has played in eight games this year for Belleville, recording four wins alongside a .916 save percentage and a 2.64 goals-against average. Full roster and lineup details will be available closer to puck drop through the team’s social media channels (@BellevilleSens).

Who to Watch

Scoring twice on Saturday evening against the Bruins, Blake Montgomery is continuing to find his footing in his first full professional season with the Belleville Senators. The 21-year-old forward recorded his first multi-goal game in Saturday’s 5-2 win, bringing his season total to three goals through seven games. Selected by Ottawa in the fourth round (117th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Montgomery brings plenty of size, speed and offensive upside to the lineup. The Comets play a fast and physical game, and having an option like Montgomery who can chase down pucks and keep pace with the opposition makes him one to watch as Belleville hopes to spoil Utica’s winning streak on home ice.

Putting together a strong start offensively, former Senator Colin White has become a player to watch for the Utica Comets heading into their matchup against Belleville. The veteran forward has recorded seven points through six games, extending his point streak to four games last night as he continues to provide an offensive spark for the Comets. White brings a combination of NHL experience, offensive instincts and versatility to the Utica lineup, making him a threat in multiple situations. As the Comets look for their sixth straight win, Belleville will need to be aware of his recent production and limit his opportunities as he looks to keep his point streak alive.

Follow the Action:

Puck drop tonight is set for 5:45 p.m. ET from NBT Bank Arena in Utica, New York. Broadcast coverage begins at 6:00 p.m. with David Foot 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.