Del Bel Belluz, Aston-Reese spark Monsters comeback, beat Marlies in shootout

Cleveland erased a two-goal hole and prevailed 3-2 in a shootout over the Toronto Marlies, turning a game that looked tilted in Toronto’s favor into a showcase of resilience and clutch finishing. Toronto led 2-0 entering the third period on goals from Jacob Quillan and Luke Haymes, but a Luca Del Bel Belluz power-play marker and a tying goal from Zach Aston-Reese at 13:58 forced overtime. The score remained deadlocked through the extra period, and Cleveland ultimately won in the shootout.

The sequence exposed several decisive dynamics. Del Bel Belluz's power-play conversion cut the deficit and altered momentum, underscoring the Monsters’ ability to capitalize on special teams opportunities when trailing. Aston-Reese, a seasoned forward known for his tenacity, provided the muscle and finish that turned pressure into parity late in the third. For Toronto, Quillan and Haymes built an early cushion but the Marlies were unable to reassert control after the break, illustrating how quickly an advantage can evaporate at the AHL level.

From a roster-development perspective, this game matters beyond the single result. The Cleveland Monsters, as the American Hockey League affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets, showcased players who can seize high-leverage moments - a currency NHL organizations watch closely when considering call-ups. For the Toronto Marlies, the loss highlights the thin margins young prospects face while trying to prove readiness for the Maple Leafs. Games decided in overtime and shootouts reveal individual poise under pressure, and performances by Del Bel Belluz and Aston-Reese will be noted by coaching staffs and scouts.

There are also business and cultural implications for both markets. Tight, late-game drama like this fuels local engagement, drives postgame discussion, and can lift ticket demand and merchandise sales for minor-league clubs that rely on sustained fan excitement. For Cleveland, a comeback win reinforces the Monsters’ identity in a competitive AHL landscape where home-ice momentum helps small-market teams compete with larger franchises for attention.

Tactically, the game reinforced the value of special teams and veteran leadership. Cleveland’s late push demonstrated effective risk-taking and execution, while Toronto’s inability to close out under pressure points to development areas in game management and defensive structure late in regulation.

What comes next is simple: momentum. The Monsters leave with a morale-boosting victory that could translate into confidence in upcoming games, and individual performers on both sides will carry increased scrutiny and opportunity as the AHL season progresses.