Local & Community
Firebirds Bring Back Favorite
The Coachella Valley Firebirds are bringing back defenseman Gustav Olofsson for a fifth season, the team announced Wednesday. Olofsson signed a one-year deal to stay with the Kraken's minor league affiliate in Palm Desert.
The 31-year-old from Sweden has been with the Firebirds since the team's first season in 2022. Last season, he played 48 games and put up 32 points, four goals and 28 assists, and led all Firebirds skaters in plus-minus at plus-28.
"Gustav has been a part of this organization since day one, and that says a lot about the person and player he is," Firebirds General Manager Troy Bodie said. "His leadership, professionalism, and consistency have helped establish the culture we've built in Coachella Valley."
Olofsson has also played 63 NHL games between the Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, and Seattle Kraken after Minnesota picked him in the second round of the 2013 draft. He's suited up in 414 minor league games overall, though most of his playoff experience has come in Coachella Valley, where he's helped the team reach the Calder Cup Finals two years running.
The Firebirds open their fifth season October 2 at Acrisure Arena against the Ontario Reign.
By: NBC Palm Springs
July 29, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings