Firebirds re-sign forward Jakov Novak to one-year deal

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - Forward Jakov Novak is returning to the Coachella Valley Firebirds on a one-year deal, the team announced on Tuesday.

Novak, 27, returns to the Firebirds after skating in 37 regular season games during the 2025-26 campaign, recording five goals and seven assists for 12 points.

Check Out: Firebirds unveil 2026-27 regular season schedule

The Windsor, ON native also appeared in four Calder Cup Playoff games with Coachella Valley before joining the ECHL's Kansas City Mavericks, where Novak helped the club reach the Kelly Cup Final. 

Selected by the Ottawa Senators in the seventh round (188th overall) of the 2018 NHL Draft, Novak has appeared in 43 career American Hockey League regular season games and eight Calder Cup Playoff contests with the Laval Rocket and Firebirds.

Prior to joining Coachella Valley, Novak helped the ECHL's Trois-Rivières Lions capture the 2025 Kelly Cup Championship.

Prior to his professional career, Novak spent five seasons in the NCAA with Bentley University and Northeastern University, recording 91 points (46 goals, 45 assists) in 161 career games. Before beginning his collegiate career, Novak earned NAHL Most Valuable Player and Forward of the Year honors with the Janesville Jets after leading the league in scoring during the 2017-18 season.

The Firebirds' season kicks off the 2026-27 AHL season on Friday, Oct. 2, with a home opener against the Ontario Reign.

Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing updates on the Firebirds all season long.