Firebirds Re-Sign Veteran Forward Mitchell Stephens to Two-Year Extension

The Coachella Valley Firebirds are keeping one of their veteran leaders in the fold for the foreseeable future.Forward Mitchell Stephens has signed a two-year contract extension with the Firebirds, ensuring the 29-year-old remains in the Coachella Valley through the 2027-28 American Hockey League season.Since joining the franchise in 2024, Stephens has become an important part of the Firebirds' success both on and off the ice. Last season, he was counted on to help guide one of the youngest rosters in the AHL, providing leadership and experience to a team filled with developing talent.Despite the youthful lineup, Stephens remained a steady contributor offensively, recording nine goals and 11 assists in 57 games during the 2025-26 campaign.After signing his extension, Stephens said he's excited to return and continue helping the next wave of Firebirds players."We're super excited to be back," Stephens said. "I'm looking forward to coming into a room with five or six new rookies and the guys who've been here for a year or two now. As one of the older players, I want to help those younger guys trust the process because you learn so much from it and improve as much as you can."The veteran forward's return gives the Firebirds another experienced voice in the locker room as the club prepares for the upcoming season and continues developing players for the Seattle Kraken organization.The Firebirds will open their home schedule on Friday, October 2, when they welcome the San Diego Gulls to Acrisure Arena to begin another exciting season of hockey in the Coachella Valley.In other local sports news, don't forget that the Coachella Valley Scorpions Showcase takes place Thursday at Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage beginning at 5 p.m. The event will feature an exhibition pickleball match with special guests, including members of the Palm Springs Police Department, while NBC Palm Springs Sports Director Tim O'Brien will serve as the event's emcee. Tickets are still available. For more Coachella Valley News visit NBCPalmSprings.com