Devils netminder Jason Cugnet has been excellent, while the Panthers have been boosted by Ladislav Kudrna's fine form.

"Jason has probably been our best player in the play-offs," Whistle said.

"He has put us in positions to win games by making some big saves at crucial times, and everyone is feeding off that and working hard."

Whistle confirmed that Dave Matsos will be available after his recovery from a broken hand, while Jonathan Phillips, who trained this week following a broken leg, will dress.

Coventry Blaze and Sheffield Steelers go head-to-head in the first semi-final on Saturday.