The Coachella Valley Firebirds announced on May 9 that they will play the Colorado Eagles in the third round of the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs after defeating the Ontario Reign in double overtime during Game 5 of the second round. J.R Avon scored the winning goal just under two minutes into the second overtime, giving Coachella Valley a 3-2 victory and advancing them to the Pacific Division Finals.
This upcoming best-of-five series will begin at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, with games scheduled for Wednesday, May 13 and Friday, May 15. The series then moves to Blue Arena in Loveland, Colorado for Game 3 on Sunday, May 17. If necessary, Games 4 and 5 will also be played at Blue Arena on May 20 and May 22. Colorado holds home-ice advantage after finishing higher than Coachella Valley in division standings.
The Firebirds have recorded deep playoff runs and division titles early in their history and serve as the American Hockey League affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Seattle Kraken, according to the official website. The team has brought professional hockey to the Coachella Valley region while building a passionate community through fan events and outreach efforts such as youth hockey development, education programs, health initiatives, and partnerships with local nonprofits supporting families and children.
Information about Away Game Watch Parties around Coachella Valley is expected later this week. Tickets for third-round home games are currently available online or at Acrisure Arena’s Ticketmaster Box Office.
The broader impact of this playoff run includes strengthening community ties through hockey engagement across all ages in Coachella Valley—a core focus highlighted by team initiatives listed on their official website.
