Gabriel Pizza Gameday Build-Up: Belleville wraps up back-to-back versus Comets

Sunday, October 11, 2026, vs. Utica Comets (NHL Affiliate: New Jersey Devils)

The Set-Up

The Belleville Senators wrap up the second game of their back-to-back as they take on the Utica Comets at home this afternoon. Belleville is coming off a third-period barrage, earning a 3-2 victory over the Syracuse Crunch and improving its record to 2-1-0-0, tied for second in the North Division. The victory was fueled by newcomers Kasper Halttunen and Ryan Suzuki, who both scored their first goals in Belleville, while Xavier Bourgault notched the late-game winner, extending his point streak to three games. Jonas Johansson picked up his second win of the season, making 30 saves last night. Following the game, Head Coach Andrew Campbell spoke about the team’s effort and how crucial a strong third-period push was. “Overall, a win is a win… For 40 minutes, they (Syracuse) were the better team. We won’t hide from that. We knew we had another 20 minutes in a one-goal game, and we found a way to make that happen, so credit to the guys.” Now, the focus shifts to the undefeated Utica Comets, who are also playing the second half of their own back-to-back. Coming off a close 2-1 victory yesterday, the Comets will look to continue their early-season unbeaten streak. Jakub Malek made 23 saves on 24 shots in the win, while Lenni Hameenaho scored the eventual game-winner to propel Utica past Rochester. Utica will make it’s way to the newly named CIBC Place for the first time since April 15th earlier this year. The Senators and Comets face off for the first time this season at 5:00 p.m. this afternoon.

Previous History

For the two division opponents, it has been a relatively close matchup. Dating back to last season, the Senators went 4-6-0-0 against the Comets with their last contest coming at the end of April last season. Belleville was shutout 3-0 as Kevin Reidler had the start, saving 26 of 29 shots. All-time, Belleville is 27-24-5-0 against Utica as they enter game one of eight versus the Comets this season.

Roster Notes

There is one roster move to note, as defenceman Jorian Donovan has been recalled from Belleville to Ottawa. Through three games, Donovan has recorded zero points and five shots on goal as he begins his third full year with the organization. Full roster and lineup details will be available closer to puck drop on the Senators’ social media channels (@BellevilleSens).

Who to Watch

Xavier Bourgault has found his offensive rhythm early in the season, carrying a three-game point streak into the second half of Belleville’s back-to-back. The 23-year-old forward has recorded two goals and an assist over that stretch, continuing to look like a dangerous offensive threat and an important contributor to the Senators’ success. After finishing last season with a strong offensive push, Bourgault appears to have carried that momentum into the new campaign. He’ll look to keep producing and remain a key piece of Belleville’s attack as the season progresses. Heading into this afternoon’s matchup, Bourgault will be one to watch as he looks to extend his point streak and help the Senators build on last night’s victory.

Matyas Melovsky will be looking to make an impact against a familiar foe as Utica takes on Belleville for the first time. The young forward had success against the Senators last season, recording five points, including three goals, across eight games. Originally selected by the New Jersey Devils in the sixth round of the 2024 NHL Draft, Melovsky brings a playmaking touch and offensive instincts that can make him a dangerous presence in the attacking zone. With a track record of finding the scoresheet against Belleville, Melovsky is certainly a player the Senators will need to keep an eye on as he looks to produce against his former opposition once again.

Follow the Action:

Puck drop tonight is set for 5:00 p.m. ET from CIBC Place in Belleville, Ontario. Broadcast coverage begins at 4:45 p.m. with David Foot and Zach McGibbon and can be seen via 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.