The Henderson Silver Knights clinched a berth in the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs with a 5-4 come-from-behind victory over Tucson on Saturday evening. Henderson scored twice in the final 1:26 of regulation for their first postseason return since 2022. The result also locked in playoff spots for the San Jose Barracuda and Coachella Valley Firebirds.
The Henderson Silver Knights overcame a late deficit to defeat Tucson 5-4 on Saturday evening, securing their place in the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs. The team netted two goals in the last 1:26 of regulation, marking their first postseason appearance since 2022, according to TheAHL.com. This win in Henderson propelled them into the playoffs alongside six other Pacific Division teams. The Tucson loss simultaneously clinched berths for the San Jose Barracuda and Coachella Valley Firebirds. For the Barracuda, it means a second straight postseason after missing the previous three springs. The Firebirds, in their fourth season in the AHL, will make their fourth consecutive playoff run; they have won eight playoff series, reaching the Calder Cup Finals in 2023 and 2024. Seven teams from the Pacific Division will qualify for the Calder Cup Playoffs. The top finisher earns a bye to the division semifinals, while teams finishing second through seventh compete in best-of-three first-round series. The AHL's 2025-26 regular season concludes on April 19.