Sports
Firebirds Enter Final Week with Playoff Seeding on the Line, Controversial Call Looms Large
The Coachella Valley Firebirds are entering the final week of the regular season, and every game now carries playoff-level intensity.
With just three games remaining, the Firebirds are fighting for positioning in the American Hockey League standings. Seeding will determine home ice advantage when the playoffs begin around April 21st or 22nd, making each matchup critical.
A controversial moment from Saturday’s game could end up playing a major role. A goal involving Ty Nelson and Lleyton Roed was overturned on a goalie interference call—despite replays appearing to show little to no contact. Without video review in the AHL, the Firebirds had no way to challenge the decision.
Head coach Derek Laxdal didn’t hold back, calling it one of the worst calls he’s seen in his coaching career. The missed opportunity could prove costly as the standings tighten.
The Firebirds now turn their focus to a key matchup against the San Jose Barracuda, who sit just two points behind them in the race for a final home playoff spot in the Pacific Division.
Meanwhile, there’s good news locally on the diamond. The College of the Desert baseball team captured its eighth Inland Empire Athletic Conference championship, completing a four-game sweep of Mount San Jacinto. It marks the Roadrunners’ first conference title since 2022 and their first four-game sweep of the Eagles in that span.
The Roadrunners will close out the regular season with three of their final four games on the road, with their last home game set for April 21st against Barstow.
As the Firebirds push toward the postseason, fans can follow the playoff journey both on and off the ice, with special coverage airing Sunday nights on NBC Palm Springs.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Tim O'Brien
April 13, 2026
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