The Coachella Valley Firebirds have returned home for the first time since May 31. They returned after having split the series with Hershey so far. Upon their return, the Firebirds satisfied their fans in attendance by scoring six goals and keeping the Bears at bay with just two. This win has put the Firebirds ahead in the series with a 2-1 lead.
Three Stars
Max McCormick
The Captain earns the night’s first star by scoring himself a hat trick. McCormick’s first goal of the night came off a rather odd powerplay for the Firebirds. At the 30-second mark, it became evident that the Hershey Bears had started with the incorrect lineup. Kole Lind would serve the pass to the front of the net, and McCormick would ensure it crossed the goal line. This is the first time the Firebirds would open up scoring in the series.
McCormick would keep the pressure on in the first period, scoring his second goal at the 6:03 mark. McCormick’s net-front presence was critical to this goal.
McCormick’s last goal of the night came off an assist by John Hayden for an empty netter in the third period, securing a 6-2 victory for the Firebirds. This hat trick marks the second playoff hat trick this season and the third overall for the Firebirds.
Shane Wright
This is Wright’s first series back from his injury during the series against the Reign, and it started slow. Yet, Wright’s move up to the top line has proven successful following game three’s performance. In the first period, Wright would assist McCormick in his two goals.
In the third period of play, Wright would also find the back of the net. The goal came from Wright’s ability to carry the puck quickly before slowing down to allow the Bears’ defensemen to get too far ahead.
Lleyton Roed
The third star of the night goes to Roed, as he notched his first goal of the playoffs. After making his playoff debut in game 2, Roed knew he had to produce as the Firebirds’ stakes grew.
Two Take Aways
Line-up Change
After suffering an injury in Game One of the series, Andrew Poturalski is day-to-day for the Firebirds. This injury has shaken up the Firebirds’ top line, but they have proven that these changes do not stop them. They can adapt and play as a whole unit no matter who is on the ice with them.
Net-Front Pressure
The Firebirds’ net-front presence was crucial for multiple goals in Game Three of the Calder Cup Finals. Hunter Shepard is a fantastic goaltender, with a .913 save percentage so far these playoffs. The Firebirds’ ability to take a rebound and make it into a goal is why they landed on top. This is something that they will have to keep up with if they want to take home the Calder Cup this year.
One Question
Can the Firebirds keep it up?
Currently, the Firebirds are 7-0 at home in the playoffs, and the next two games are at home. It will be vital for them to continue to find ways to stay on top of the Hershey Bears if they want a different outcome from last year. They have a chip on their shoulder from last season, and the chance to win it at home, in front of their fans, would be monumental for this club. They need to continue to play clean hockey and try to capitalize on any chance they get.
The Firebirds are in a unique position, as head coach Dan Bylsma will lead the NHL club next year. Players may also take bringing a cup to the franchise as an audition to join the Kraken next season.
What’s Next:
Game four of the Calder Cup Finals will be at 7:00 PM PST at Acresure Arena.
