At only 5’11” and 163 pounds, Jagger Firkus is at the smaller end of the NHL spectrum, but being outsized by opponents is not something he allows to hold him back. Speaking with the Fire and Ice podcast about whether he would want to be a larger player, Firkus said “I’m kind of a guy that just tries to sneak away and get in the small areas and play with my hands in the small areas.” 

Affectionately referred to as the "Firkus Circus" by fans, Firkus was recognized for his speed, technical skill, and playmaking abilities by scouts ahead of the 2022 draft.  The Seattle Kraken also saw his potential and selected Jagger Firkus 35th overall in round 2 of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.  He signed his 3-year, entry-level contract in the summer of 2023. 

In 2023-24, his final season with the Moosejaw Warriors in the WHL, Jagger Firkus led his team in points (61 goals, 65 assists).  As the team advanced through the playoffs—becoming the WHL champions and going on to compete for the CHL’s Memorial Cup—Firkus added another 14 goals and 18 assists to his tally.  He was awarded the 2024 WHL Player of the Year and named to the 2024 WHL East Division First All-Star Team.

Jagger joined the Kraken’s AHL affiliate Coachella Valley Firebirds for the 2024-25 season.  In 69 games played, Firkus accumulated 15 goals and 21 assists, adding another 3 assists in the Firebirds’ playoff run.  

For the 2025-26 season, Firkus will most likely return to Coachella Valley to continue his development.  He is under contract with the Kraken until 2027.

Related:

2022 Draft Rewind: Shane Wright Climbs from Exceptional Status to the NHL In 2019, Shane Wright was granted ‘Exceptional Status’ by the Canadian Hockey League which allowed him to enter the OHL a year earlier than other players his age.  His age and status meant many eyes were on him as he embarked on his rookie season.  Wright rose to the pressure, leading league rookies in points (39 goals, 27 assists) and earning Rookie of the Year.

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*Cover Photo by Candace Kludt | Come As You Are Hockey