The Seattle Kraken may be hitting a midseason lull, but their AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, are doing anything but slowing down. While the big club finds its footing, the Firebirds are lighting it up in January, riding a 6-2-0 stretch that’s showcased depth, goaltending brilliance, and breakout performances. They currently sit fourth in the Pacific Division with a strong 21-12-4 record, and if their recent play is any indication, they’re trending in the right direction with serious momentum.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s been fueling this January surge.
Back-to-Back Shutouts: A Weekend of Goaltending Brilliance
There’s a saying in hockey: goaltending wins games. This past weekend, the Firebirds got a double dose of elite netminding.
On Saturday, Jan. 17, Victor Ostman got the start against the San Diego Gulls and turned in a flawless performance.
He stopped all 28 shots he faced, earning his first shutout of the season and improving to 6-2-0. This was just his eighth start, but he looked like a seasoned vet between the pipes-calm, composed, and in complete control.
Then on Sunday, Jan. 18, it was Jack LaFontaine’s turn. Facing the Abbotsford Canucks, LaFontaine matched Ostman’s performance with a shutout of his own, stopping all 27 shots in what was just his second appearance of the season.
With starter Nikke Kokko getting some rest-he’s carried the bulk of the load this season with an 11-6-3 record and one shutout-both backups stepped up in a big way. These weren’t just solid outings; they were statement games. The Firebirds’ goaltending depth is clearly one of their biggest assets, and this weekend proved they can lean on any of their netminders when called upon.
Jani Nyman Named AHL First Star of the Week
Jani Nyman didn’t just have a good week-he had a dominant one. The 20-year-old forward was named the AHL’s First Star of the Week after scoring six goals and adding an assist over a four-game stretch. In three of those games, he found the back of the net twice.
Since joining the Firebirds on Dec. 31 following a stint with the Kraken, Nyman has wasted no time making his presence felt. He scored in his debut, picked up an assist in his second game, and after a brief three-game scoring drought, he’s caught fire.
Earlier this season, Nyman played 24 games with the Kraken, registering four goals and two assists. Toward the end of his NHL stint, he found himself watching more than playing, often scratched from the lineup.
But in Coachella Valley, he’s back in rhythm, and his scoring touch is undeniable. If he keeps producing at this level, a return to the NHL could be just around the corner-and the Kraken might need exactly what he’s bringing right now: finish, confidence, and offensive spark.
The “Firkus Circus” Keeps Rolling
Jagger Firkus has been a consistent force for the Firebirds all season, and January has been no exception. Dubbed the “Firkus Circus,” he’s been putting on a show-minus the gimmicks. Over the last eight games, Firkus has notched six assists, including a two-helper night in the most recent win over Abbotsford.
Through 37 games this season, Firkus has tallied 37 points (14 goals, 23 assists), leading the team in scoring. While he’s not technically averaging a point per game, his multi-point nights-like the one on Jan. 18-have kept him right on that pace.
What stands out about Firkus isn’t just the numbers, but the way he generates offense. He’s not just finishing plays; he’s creating them.
His vision and playmaking instincts are elite, and the fact that most of his production comes from assists shows how well he’s setting up his teammates. He’s not just piling up points-he’s elevating the players around him.
Logan Morrison is right behind him in the team scoring race with 36 points, but Firkus continues to be the engine that drives the Firebirds’ offense. If he stays hot, Coachella Valley will be in a great position to push for a playoff spot-and make some noise once they get there.
Next Up: San Jose Barracuda
The Firebirds will look to keep their win streak alive on Wednesday, Jan. 21, when they host the San Jose Barracuda. They’ve already taken care of business against San Jose twice this season, and with the way they’re playing right now, there’s every reason to believe they’ll be ready to do it again.
With goaltending depth clicking, young talent like Nyman catching fire, and Firkus continuing to lead the charge, the Firebirds are building something serious in Coachella Valley. January has been kind to them-and if they keep this up, the rest of the AHL better take notice.