Derek Laxdal Named Coachella Valley Firebirds Head Coach

Following the playoffs, it was known that Dan Bylsma, the previous Firebirds' head coach, would be taking over as the Kraken's head coach. The Kraken organization began their search and ultimately decided on Laxdal.

The 58-year-old Laxdal brings extensive coaching experience in the ECHL, WHL, OHL, and AHL. He has also served as an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars.

General manager Ron Francis spoke about the new hiring: "We are pleased to welcome Derek and his family to the Firebirds. Derek has a successful history of coaching and developing players at all levels. We look forward to him leading our group as we continue to build upon the foundation we have established in the AHL and the local community in our first two years in the Valley."

Laxdal also has experience playing in the NHL, with 67 career games for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders.

His most recent coaching role saw him lead the Oshawa Generals to the OHL finals. During this time, he played an integral part in the development of two first-round picks in the 2024 NHL draft: Beckett Sennecke of the Anaheim Ducks and Ben Danford of the Maple Leafs.

«I would like to thank Ron Francis, David Bonderman, Samantha Holloway, and the entire Seattle Kraken ownership group for the opportunity to lead the Firebirds,» said Derek Laxdal. «I look forward to the season and meeting the great fans in Coachella Valley. My family and I look forward to making the Valley our new home.»

With the Firebirds, Laxdal will have the opportunity to coach players like Jagger Firkus, Jani Nyman, David Goyette, and Ty Nelson.