Coachella Valley Firebirds captain Max McCormick has officially retired from professional hockey after a 12-year career that included 540 games in the American Hockey League and 94 games in the National Hockey League. The 30-year-old forward made the announcement following two consecutive injury-plagued seasons, including a full season missed in 2025-26.
McCormick is the Firebirds' all-time leader in goals with 67, second in points with 140, and third in games played with 158. He served as the team's captain during its first two seasons, leading it to Western Conference championships in both 2022-23 and 2023-24. In 53 Calder Cup Playoff games, he amassed 26 goals and 19 assists for 45 points.
A two-time AHL All-Star, McCormick played for multiple organizations including the Charlotte Checkers, Chicago Wolves, Colorado Eagles, and Belleville Senators. He recorded 159 goals and 178 assists for 337 points in his AHL career. Drafted in the sixth round by the Ottawa Senators in 2011, McCormick also played in the NHL for Ottawa, Carolina and Seattle, notching eight goals and five assists over 94 games.
Signed as a free agent by the Seattle Kraken before their inaugural season in 2021-22, McCormick was a key contributor to the Firebirds’ early success. His leadership and playmaking ability helped establish the team as a Western Conference powerhouse.
“The decision to retire from the game I have loved for as long as I can remember has not been easy, and as much as I wish I could play forever, it’s time to hang up the skates,” McCormick said. “Looking back on my career, I’m filled with nothing but gratitude and pride. Hockey has given me so many great memories, lifelong friendships, and opportunities I could have never imagined.”
McCormick was also a strong presence in the community, recently earning the Firebirds’ team award for the AHL’s IOA/American Specialty Man of the Year in 2025-26. His contributions off the ice matched his impact on it.
The Firebirds will move forward with a new captain in the 2026-27 season as they look to build on their early success. The team has yet to announce their official plans for replacing McCormick’s leadership role.
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