Coachella Valley Earns the Top Spot in the Pacific Division After 3-1 Victory Over Ontario
The Coachella Valley Firebirds defeated the Ontario Reign on Wednesday night at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 3-1. With the win, the Firebirds have secured the top spot in the Pacific Division and earn a bye in the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs.
After a physical first period went goalless, the Firebirds turned to their powerplay to break the ice. Devin Shore moved the puck from behind the net to Max McCormick, making no mistake to beat Aaron Dell for his 31stgoal of the season, a new Firebirds’ single-season franchise record. Kole Lind earned his career-high 63rd point with the secondary assist.
The line of Devin Shore, Kole Lind, and Max McCormick got to work again, converting on a 3-on-1 offensive rush. Shore finished off the play with his sixth goal of the season at 10:50. John Hayden was tripped on a breakaway, setting up just the second penalty shot in Firebirds’ history. Hayden made a quick move and beat Dell between the legs to score his 14th of the season, making it 3-0.
Reign forward Tyler Madden scored at 9:19 of the third period, spoiling Chris Driedger’s shutout bid, cutting the Firebirds’ lead to 3-1. Madden’s goal was his 15th of the year and came in his 200th professional hockey game.
The Firebirds outshot the Reign 33-30. Driedger earned his 24th win of the season and his eighth consecutive victory.
The win moves Coachella Valley’s record to 44-14-5-4. The Firebirds’ powerplay finished the game 1-for-3 and the penalty kill went 3-for-3.
For the game’s full box score, click HERE.
NEXT HOME GAME
The Firebirds continue their homestand on Friday to face the Bakersfield Condors. Head to Ticketmaster to lock in your seat before it’s too late. Don’t forget to purchase parking in advance online at ParkWhiz. Puck drop is set for 7pm PT.
TICKET UPGRADE
Looking to enhance your experience for a Firebirds game? Upgrade any ticket for access to The Compound, the newest VIP space at Acrisure Arena offering fans access to a stunning outdoor space featuring private bar, food, exclusive Firebirds merchandise options, covered seating, firepits along with access to a variety of backyard games from putt-putt and pickleball to cornhole and bocce ball and more! Upgrade options are available at the game or by clicking HERE.
Don’t miss a moment of Coachella Valley Firebirds’ hockey! Group, Flex, and Individual tickets for remainder of the 2023-24 season are on sale now! Season Tickets Memberships for 2024-25 are also on sale! For more information on ticket options, click HERE or call 760-835-8778.
Get a jump on the 2024-25 Firebirds season with season tickets on sale now! In addition to all Firebirds home games, season ticket members will have access to the 2025 AHL All Star Classic presented by Spotlight 29, along with special events, gifts, and more! Click HERE to learn more about securing your seat for next season!
Stay up to date on the latest Firebirds’ news and info by visiting CVFirebirds.com and by following the team on social media @Firebirds.