Mike Ellis is turning his focus to the play-offs

James Neil, Joe Graham, Sam Bullas and Robert Lachowicz all played alongside the club's import players, with the latter two scoring their first goals.

Ellis told BBC Radio Nottingham: "We have some bright stars and to see them contribute was great for everyone.

"It will boost their confidence and hopefully they can take the next step."

Interview: Nottingham Panthers coach Mike Ellis

Ellis added: "It sets them up and they know what they have to do.

These kids are raring to play Mike Ellis

"We have an excellent junior development and it's great we can use them. These kids are raring to play. I think the future's bright."

Panthers face a weekend double header, against Hull at the National Ice Centre on Saturday and away to the Sheffield Steelers on Sunday, and Ellis says the remaining fixtures are crucial.

"We will put on our full-strength, full-speed team and start working on what we need to do to win the play-offs," he said.

"We have three games left in the league and the young guys will get some some ice time but probably less."