Ian McKinnon Re-Signs with Firebirds, Lakers’ Future Uncertain, and Wimbledon Suspense for Taylor Fritz

The NBC Palm Springs Sports Desk, brought to you by Agua Caliente Casinos, has your Monday sports headlines.

The Coachella Valley Firebirds are keeping one of their toughest players on the ice. Forward Ian McKinnon has re-signed with the team on a two-year contract. McKinnon, 27, was one of the franchise’s original signings in 2022 and is coming off his best season yet with 11 points in 53 games. Known as the enforcer for the Firebirds, McKinnon has racked up 417 penalty minutes across his AHL career—so when he’s on the ice, fans know the game’s about to get physical. He’ll continue to call Acrisure Arena home through at least 2027.

That same arena will host some NBA action this fall. The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Phoenix Suns in a preseason matchup on October 8, 2025, right here in the Coachella Valley. But what the Lakers roster will look like remains up in the air. Over the weekend, LeBron James opted into his $52 million player option. While that keeps him in L.A. for now, his agent issued a statement suggesting LeBron may not stay long-term—depending on how the Lakers handle free agency.

Lakers insider Trevor Lane of LakersNation.com tells NBC Palm Springs that LeBron is watching closely. “If he doesn’t think the team can contend in a very competitive Western Conference, he could push for a trade,” Lane explained. The message is clear: upgrade the roster, or risk losing the franchise star.

Meanwhile, Wimbledon opened today with high drama for Southern California native Taylor Fritz. Facing French up-and-comer Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, Fritz dropped the first two sets before rallying to tie it 2–2. With momentum on his side, the match was suspended due to the 11 p.m. curfew. It will resume tomorrow. Fritz’s local ties include his father, Guy Fritz, who previously coached at College of the Desert.

That’s your NBC Palm Springs Sports Desk update. I’m Caitlyn Kelley.

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