Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Derek Laxdal across Hockey.
The Coachella Valley Firebirds aim to even their series against the Colorado Eagles after a 3‑0 loss, while the Springfield Thunderbirds force a Game 2 overtime win, highlighting key performances from emerging talent and steady goaltending.
Jake O'Brien, the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NHL draft, made his professional debut with the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the Pacific Division Finals. Though the team fell 3‑0, O'Brien's smart plays and composure drew praise from coach Derek Laxdal and hint at a broader rule change that could keep him in the AHL next season.
The Pacific Division finals begin tonight in Palm Desert, Calif., as the Coachella Valley Firebirds host the Colorado Eagles in Game 1, spotlighting Oscar Fisker Mølgaard’s scoring surge and Trent Miner’s stellar goaltending.