Pacific Division Semifinals, Game 3 Preview at CV (5/5/26)

The Ontario Reign return to form with a dominant 5-1 victory over the Coachella Valley Firebirds in Game 2 of the Pacific Division Semifinals, evening the best-of-five series at one game apiece. Hosts Cam McGuire and Paige Capistran break down the pivotal win, highlighting key turning points such as Logan Brown’s late first-period goal to tie the game and Cole Gutman’s early third-period goal that shifted momentum. The Reign’s balanced attack—featuring five different goal scorers and ten players with at least one point—was fueled by improved puck management, physicality, and strong defensive play, particularly on the penalty kill, which shut down all five Firebirds power plays. Goaltender Phoenix Copley delivered a stellar 34-save performance, while head coach Andrew Lord credited the team’s return to their identity after a sluggish Game 1. The episode also explores the ongoing goalie rotation between Copley and Eric Portillo, with both having shown excellence in their respective games. As Game 3 looms in Palm Desert, the focus shifts to who will start between the pipes and whether the Reign can sustain their momentum on the road.