Utica’s thrilling new campaign kicks off Friday, October 10 at 7:00 PM as the Comets face the Cleveland Monsters at the Adirondack Bank Center—launching a back‑to‑back weekend with a Saturday matinee at 3:00 PM on October 11. Saturday’s game promises a festival‑style atmosphere with outdoor activities and pre‑game family fun.
Team Overview
The Utica Comets, proud AHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, are more than just a hockey team—they’re our team. Skating out of the Adirondack Bank center in the heart of downtown Utica, the Comets bring world-class hockey and big-league entertainment right into our backyard. With the backing of the Devils and the roar of Mohawk Valley behind them, the Comets have built a reputation as one of the league’s fiercest competitors and most passionate fan bases. And if you’ve ever been inside the Adirondack Bank Center on Friday night, you know—there’s no louder barn in the AHL. From the first puck drop to the final buzzer, it’s not just hockey—it’s Utica pride on full display.
A Word from the Head Coach:
After taking over as interim Head Coach last November and being officially named Head Coach in June, Ryan Parent is gearing up for his first full season as bench boss in Utica. Despite an 0-10-1-2 start last season, he led the Comets through a solid second half, winning 10 of 15 games from January 8th to February 14th, and winning seven of their last 11 games to end the regular season. Parent commented, “One thing that stood out was that everyone was a contributor down the line and we had a full team buy-in which helped stabilize things and made us competitive down the stretch.” The Comets will certainly look to carry that mindset into the new season.
Returning Players to Watch:
Ryan Schmelzer returns for his fifth straight season, having served as captain for his entire career in Utica. The New York native has been the team’s top point-getter the past two seasons, registering 44 points last season and 52 the year prior. With 65 as a Comet, Schmelzer is just two goals shy of becoming the franchise’s leading scorer in the era of the affiliation with the New Jersey Devils. While it’s an impressive milestone, the Comets’ captain is more focused on the overall success of the team and bringing fans to their feet. When asked about playing in front of the Utica faithful, Schmelzer commented, “Nothing’s better than when we’re playing well, and the energy and confidence (the fans) give us… Our rink is something that we cherish, so we really want to impress (the fans) and we love their support no matter what.”
Another forward Comets fans will be excited to have back is Brian Halonen, fresh off leading the team with 27 goals last season after he finished second in that category the year prior with 20. The Minnesota native has also led the Comets with 9 power play goals each of the last two seasons, and finished tied for the team lead in that department with five during the 2022-23 season. Halonen earned himself a two-year, two-way deal with New Jersey last May which carries through this season.
A noteworthy returner on the Comets blue line is defenseman Colton White, a grizzled veteran who is set to begin his ninth season in the pro ranks and has seen action in 84 NHL games, 38 of which have come with the New Jersey Devils. The London, ON native registered 21 points last season, the second-highest mark in a single season during his career.
Spotlight Prospects:
Defenseman Seamus Casey made his professional debut last season after graduating from the University of Michigan the year prior. He started the year in New Jersey, notching an impressive three goals and one assist in his first five pro games. He made his Comets debut on October 25th last season and went on a tear, recording nine points over seven straight games and finishing the season with 18 points in 30 games. With his impressive skating ability and offensive touch, Casey has already proven he can make an impact at the NHL level and it should come as no surprise to see him get more reps in a Devils sweater this season.
Shane Lachance signed an entry level contract with New Jersey this past spring after his Boston University Terriers lost in the NCAA Frozen Four Championship to Western Michigan. The former BU captain, drafted by Edmonton in the sixth round in the 2021 NHL Draft, joined the Comets for the final two games of the regular season and tallied a goal and an assist in his first two professional games. At 6’5” and with some offensive flare, Lachance is tough to miss on the ice and is a guy both Comets and Devils fans alike should be excited about.
Cam Squires was another late-season arrival for the Comets during the 2024-25 campaign. He joined the team for the final three games of the regular season and recorded an impressive four points (one goal, three assists) in his first three professional games. The Prince Edward Island native was drafted in the fourth round of the 2023 NHL Draft by the Devils who signed him to a three-year, entry-level contract last July. After finishing with a team-leading 75 points last season with the QMJHL’s Cape Breton Eagles and making an immediate impact with the Comets, Squires’ skill makes him an asset for whichever club he plays for this season and beyond.
Lenni Hӓmeenaho was drafted by New Jersey in the second round and 58th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. The Finnish-born winger is coming off a successful 2024-25 campaign in which he racked up 51 points (20 goals, 31 assists) in 58 games with Ässät in Liiga, his home country’s top professional hockey league. While he is expected to start the season in Utica, Hӓmeenaho is just 20 years of age and is projected to be a top-six NHL forward, making him an intriguing player in the Devils’ pipeline.
New Players
Calen Addison, signed to a one-year, two-way contract, was one of the first acquisitions for the New Jersey Devils when NHL free agency opened in July. The 25-year-old right-handed defenseman posted 33 points with the Henderson Silver Knights (AHL) last season, leading all Henderson defensemen in that category before being traded to the Springfield Thunderbirds. Known for his offensive capabilities and effectiveness on the power play, Addison is a guy Comets fans should look forward to watching this season.
Jeremy Hanzel is another player who’s expected to add depth to the Comets’ blue line. The 22-year-old Coquitlam, British Columbia native was acquired by the Devils in June in a trade which sent Erik Haula to Nashville in exchange for Hanzel and a fourth-round pick. The left-shot defenseman was drafted by Colorado in the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Draft and spent his rookie season last year with both of Nashville’s minor league affiliates, the Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) and Atlanta Gladiators (ECHL), where he registered a combined 22 points (three goals, 19 assists) in 65 games.
The Comets Experience—Inside the Adirondack Bank Center
The Fan Zone
Utica’s game-day atmosphere is electric—rooted in beloved theme nights and elevated with new enhancements that make every visit unforgettable. Classics like the Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Eve matchups still draw enthusiastic crowds, while this season introduces enticing outdoor activations and immersive promotions. Don’t miss the trio of relaxed Sunday afternoon games—perfect opportunities for families to experience Comets hockey in full swing.
Before the Game – Hang Out Spots
72 Tavern & Grill
Right next door to the Adirondack Bank Center, 72 Tavern & Grill is the go-to pre-game hub for Comets Country. With 18 big screens across the bar and dining space, you won’t miss a minute of the action. Fan favorites include:
- Wings & Shareables – jumbo chicken wings, loaded nachos, giant Bavarian pretzels, pizza
- Salads – 72 Chicken Caesar Salad, Cobb Salad
- Burgers & Handhelds – The Boss Burger, The Devil’s Buffalo Chicken Wrap
- Local Craft Beers & Cocktails – rotating taps and specialty cocktails
It’s the perfect place to rally with friends or fuel up with family before heading into the Adirondack Bank Center.
The Horton Room
Inside the Adirondack Bank Center itself, The Horton Room offers a more intimate pre-game option. With craft brews and a lively social atmosphere, it’s a fan-favorite gathering place before the puck drops.
Inside the Arena – Concessions & Eats
The Adirondack Bank Center offers a mix of classic and local tastes, so fans can grab a bite before or during the action.
Oriskany Street Grill – Zweigle’s hot dogs, Dino’s sausages, wraps, subs, walking tacos, onion rings, and sweet potato fries
Kookie’s Q – pulled pork, smoked brisket, mac-and-cheese, nacho bowls, and combo platters, all smoked in-house
Sweet Tooth Ice Cream & Candy – soft-serve (vanilla, chocolate, or twist), candy, and sweet treats for fans of all ages
Adirondack Bank Center Concessions – chicken fingers, nachos, pretzels, hot dogs, fries, and refillable souvenir soda cups
Game Day Basics
- Doors open: Season-ticket holders gain entry 90 minutes before puck drop; general admission typically 60 minutes prior.
- Parking & Entry: Use the lots on Whitesboro Street or Auditorium Drive ($5), with handicapped parking available near the Labatt Blue entrance. You can enter via the Labatt Blue, Don’s Ford, or Oriskany Street entrances. Note: no re-entry allowed once you leave the venue
Fan Tips
- Dress in layers and arrive early to enjoy pre-game fun—whether that’s grabbing BBQ at Kookie’s Q or hot dog at Oriskany, then a sweet finish at Sweet Tooth.
- The Fan Zone, located behind Sections 108/208, offers game-night collectibles, shoutouts, and support for ticket needs.
- Credit/debit cards accepted everywhere—except parking—and two ATMs (by sections
Broadcast & Streaming Info
- Radio: All games streamed live on WKLL 94.9 FM
- TV: Select home games on WKTV (NewsChannel 2)
- Streaming: Watch every game live or on-demand via AHLTV on FloHockey
