Saturday March 7, 2026, vs. Utica Comets (NHL Affiliate: New Jersey Devils)
The Set Up
After a 5-2 loss at the hands of the Utica Comets, the Belleville Senators are looking to bounce back and take at least one game in this four-game set. In last night’s battle between the two rivals, the Senators were only able to put together fourteen shots, tying their lowest total in a game this season. Both Garrett Pilon and Tyler Boucher scored, while Landen Hookey recorded two assists, continuing his production against the Comets. Similar contributions came from Utica, as Xavier Parent and Jonathan Gruden each recorded a goal and an assist, while captain Ryan Schmelzer added two assists. The loss extends the Senators’ losing streak to six games and drops their record to 21-28-8-0 on the year. Though last night also brought a loss for the Rochester Americans (who hold the final playoff spot), Belleville is quickly running out of runway in the race for a 2026 playoff berth. One game at a time is where the Senators find themselves this season, and with every game comes increased urgency.
Previous History
The Senators fell behind in the season series after last night, now sitting at 3-4-0-0. In their last three contests against each other, the Comets have outscored the Senators 15-6 after Belleville had previously led 16-10. All-time, the record slips to 26-22-5-0 in favour of Belleville, with last season ending in a 4-2-2-0 advantage for the Senators.
Roster Notes
There is one roster transaction to note for the Belleville Senators, and it comes in the form of a trade. Yesterday, the Senators dealt forward Wyatt Bongiovanni to the Hershey Bears in exchange for forward Graeme Clarke. In 50 games this season, Clarke has scored five goals for 24 points and is a six-year pro at the AHL level. Clarke made the trip back to Belleville with the Senators last night and could make his debut as soon as tonight against the Comets. Full roster and lineup details will be available closer to puck drop on the Sens’ social media channels (@BellevilleSens).
Who to Watch
Snapping his six-game pointless streak on Friday night, Tyler Boucher will be looking to continue that success back on home ice. With a goal and an assist for the Scottsdale, Arizona winger, the Senators are hoping those points can keep rolling in on the scoreboard and add some to the standings as well. Boucher’s game has taken a step beyond just scoring numbers, as the first-round pick has become more physical and harder on the forecheck. During this losing streak, Belleville has been outscored 26-9 while giving up the first goal in each of those contests. If the Senators are going to strike first tonight, Boucher will play a role.
Starting his 2025-2026 campaign in mid-February, Marc McLaughlin took little time to ease into the year. Through just ten games this season, McLaughlin has scored four goals and nine points during that stretch, shooting at 40 percent so far. In a season where the Comets have mostly struggled to light the lamp, this production has been a welcome addition as they try to keep their positive trend going. In three games against the Senators, the 1999-born forward has two points, both coming in last Saturday’s matchup. McLaughlin will be an intriguing name to follow as he looks to continue producing in a short span.
Follow the Action:
Puck drop tonight is set for 7:00 p.m. ET from CAA Arena in Belleville, Ontario. Broadcast coverage begins at 6:45 p.m. with David Foot and Brock Ormond, and can be seen on AHLTV on FloHockey, with a free-to-listen option available 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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