Prospect Roundup: Jake O'Brien Reports To Coachella Valley Firebirds

TL;DR

Jake O'Brien, the 2025 First Round pick, has been reassigned to the Coachella Valley Firebirds after his season with the Brantford Bulldogs ended. He averaged 1.75 points per game in the regular season and will practice with the Firebirds as he prepares for a potential full-time role in 2026.

Key points

Jake O'Brien reassigned to Coachella Valley Firebirds
Averaged 1.75 points per game with Brantford Bulldogs
Will practice with Firebirds, unlikely to play this season
Potential for full-time role in 2026
Known for threading through opponents and creating chances

Jake O'BrienCoachella Valley FirebirdsBrantford Bulldogs

2025 First Round pick Jake O’Brien has been reassigned to the Coachella Valley Firebirds. His season with the Brantford Bulldogs of the OHL came to an end May 4th after a game 7 loss to the Barrie Broncos in the conference final.

O’Brien put up a 1.75 points-per-game average in the regular season: 28 goals and 65 assists across 53 games played. In the playoffs, he skated in 15 games and added 6 goals and 17 assists. The 8th-overall pick is best known for his ability to thread his way through his opponents, anticipating their movements and sneaking pucks over, under, around, and through the smallest openings. His uncanny ability to predict not only his opponents, but also his teammates’ movements allows him to create chances from the most untenable situation.

Similar to Ryden Evers, it is unlikely that O’Brien will see any playing time in Coachella Valley. Instead, he will have the opportunity to practice with the team and get familiar with the facilities and coaching staff. With the recent rule changes allowing 19-year old first round picks to play in the AHL, it is entirely possible he will be with the team full-time in the 2026 season.

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Q&A

What were Jake O'Brien's stats with the Brantford Bulldogs?

Jake O'Brien recorded 28 goals and 65 assists in 53 games, averaging 1.75 points per game during the regular season.

Will Jake O'Brien play in the AHL for the Coachella Valley Firebirds?

It is unlikely that Jake O'Brien will play in games for the Firebirds this season, but he will practice with the team and could join full-time in 2026.

What is Jake O'Brien known for in his playing style?

Jake O'Brien is known for his exceptional ability to navigate through opponents and create scoring opportunities by anticipating movements of both opponents and teammates.