Firebirds Return to Coachella Valley Ice as Playoff Push Heats Up

The Coachella Valley Firebirds are back on home ice at the Berger Foundation Iceplex after a road trip that took them through Calgary and Chicago. With the regular season entering its final stretch, the Firebirds are ramping up intensity at practice as they chase a playoff berth.

Though a few players—John Hayden, Cale Fleury, and Jaanni Newman—remain in Seattle, the team is getting healthier overall. Forward Leighton Road made his return in Chicago over the weekend, giving the team another boost as they head into a pivotal week.

Head Coach Eric Laxdal outlined the team’s goals from the start of the season: make the playoffs and secure home ice advantage in the opening round. With just eight games remaining, every point matters.

“We’ve got the best team in our division coming in tomorrow night in Colorado,” Laxdal said. “We’ve got to be at the top of our game.”

Colorado, currently leading the Pacific Division, visits Acrisure Arena on Wednesday night. A win for the Firebirds would not only be a confidence boost but a major step toward postseason positioning. Puck drops at 7 p.m.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.