Sports
Firebirds' Nikke Kokko Named to AHL All-Rookie Team; Roller Hockey Doc Premieres Tonight
It’s an exciting time for the Coachella Valley Firebirds both on and off the ice.
As the regular season winds down, rookie goaltender Nikke Kokko has been named to the AHL All-Rookie Team, highlighting a phenomenal first-year performance. With a record of 29-2, a 2.23 goals-against average, and a .914 save percentage, Kokko currently leads all rookie goaltenders—and he still has two games left to play.
Kokko’s strong showing also earned him a call-up to the NHL’s Seattle Kraken, where he made his debut back in March. With the postseason ahead, all eyes will be on how the Firebirds manage their goaltending rotation.
Meanwhile, off the ice, a different kind of spotlight is shining on the team. Tonight marks the premiere of Pro Beach Hockey: Sun, Surf & Slapshots, a roller hockey documentary produced by Firebirds captain Max McCormick and former goaltender Chris Driedger.
The premiere takes place at the Mary Pickford Theatre in Cathedral City, with red carpet access beginning at 7:15 p.m. and the screening starting at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are still available through the Firebirds’ Instagram bio link.
NBC Palm Springs Sports Desk host Tim O'Brien will be reporting live from the event starting at 6 p.m. and will have full coverage in tonight’s 11 p.m. newscast.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: david.neuendorff@entravision.com
April 16, 2025


