*Chris Driedger's 10-year pro career has had plenty of ups and downs, and he knows enough not to take this season's highs with the Firebirds for granted.* https://x.com/TheAHL/status/1792980089690292232
The 30-year-old goalie began his career in 2012 with the Ottawa Senators, playing for four ECHL and AHL affiliate clubs during his first four seasons, including three NHL appearances. In the 2018-19 season, he joined the Springfield Thunderbirds. Initially relegated to the ECHL, a trade with Toronto allowed him to return to the AHL and shine on the ice. Driedger then played with the Florida Panthers from 2019 to 2021, making playoff appearances.
Selected by the Seattle Kraken in the summer of 2021 and by Team Canada for the 2022 World Championships, Driedger faced a significant setback with an injury in the final game against Finland, which Canada lost in overtime.
After an eight-month recovery, Driedger returned to the ice and established himself as the star goalie for the Coachella Valley Firebirds. His exceptional performance has been crucial for a team that initially struggled but eventually soared past Calgary and Ontario on their way to the Calder Cup. The future looks bright for Driedger as he continues his impressive journey in professional hockey.
