Sports
Firebirds Face Elimination as Head Coach Derek Laxdal Urges Team to Stay Focused
The Coachella Valley Firebirds are once again facing elimination as they prepare for a critical playoff matchup tonight at Acrisure Arena.
After falling short in their previous game, the Firebirds now need two consecutive wins to advance to the third round of the Calder Cup Playoffs. Despite the pressure, head coach Derek Laxdal remains confident in his team’s performance and mindset.
Speaking after Tuesday’s loss, Laxdal said there was little need for a major message to the locker room, emphasizing that the Firebirds played well for most of the game.
“I can’t change what happened,” Laxdal said. “If we continue to play the way we did, I like our chances in Game 4.”
The Firebirds have experience in high-pressure situations this postseason. Tonight marks the third time during the playoffs the team has faced a win-or-go-home scenario.
Lineup changes are expected to be minimal, although goaltending decisions for the opposing team remain uncertain. The Firebirds are expected to continue relying on the core group that has kept them competitive throughout the series.
NBC Palm Springs will have full postgame coverage, including reaction from Coach Derek Laxdal and players, during the 11 p.m. broadcast from Acrisure Arena.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 7, 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