By Annie Nadin
The Wranglers return to the Scotiabank Saddledome, ready to face off against their rivals, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, in Calgary’s home-opener Friday night (7 p.m., CLICK FOR TICKETS).
The two teams play the second tilt of a doubleheader Saturday at 6 p.m. at the ‘Dome. CLICK FOR TICKETS
The Matchup
There’s plenty on the line this weekend.
For the Wranglers, it’s about redemption and a fresh start after being eliminated by the Firebirds in the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs.
For Coachella Valley, it’s a chance to climb the standings and gain separation from Calgary, with both teams entering the weekend three points and identical 1-2-1 records.
The Wranglers know the importance of setting the tone early and playing with purpose.
“Every guy in the lineup showed up, played with a little bit of anger, and that’s what you need,” said Head Coach Sutter following their recent win against Tucson, where Calgary earned three points in a two-game series.
Rookie forward Matvei Gridin continues to impress, averaging a goal per game and collecting three points in his first two outings.
Oh sooo good 🤌 pic.twitter.com/27IJruOusF
— Calgary Wranglers (@AHLWranglers) October 20, 2025
“He’s a guy that can play with a ton of pace, with and without the puck,” said Sutter. “He checks hard, gets on the right side of pucks quickly, and that leads to a lot of speed and opportunity going the other way.”
A new face will also hit the ice for the Wranglers: defenceman Daniil Miromanov.
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After spending time with the Flames since 2024, Miromanov joined the Wranglers roster on Oct. 21.
“He came in with a really good attitude and is looking forward to the opportunity to play some big minutes,” Sutter shared. “A big, right-handed defenceman is always a valuable addition, we’re excited to have him.”
The Other Side
The Firebirds enter the matchup riding momentum after a 6-3 victory over the San Jose Barracuda.
It hasn’t been smooth sailing for the Firebirds to start the season. They opened with a 5-0 loss to the San Diego Gulls on Oct. 10, followed by a 3-1 defeat to the Colorado Eagles on Oct.18 and a narrow 5-4 loss to the Bakersfield Condors on Oct. 22.
Goaltender Nikke Koko has been stellar to start the season, recording 86 saves in three games.
