Steelers coach Dave Matsos believes netminder Jody Lehman holds the key to his side's quest to retain their play-off crown.
Steelers coach eyeing play-off glory in Nottingham
Sheffield Steelers coach Dave Matsos believes netminder Jody Lehman holds the key to his side's quest to retain their Elite League play-off crown.
The native of Saskatchewan posted the first shut-out in a play-off final in 2008 when leading Steelers to success over Coventry Blaze and he is favourite to be named the league's Most Valuable Player.
Steelers face Cardiff Devils in the last four for the fourth time in six seasons with Lehman once again coming up against Peter Aubry, the two finishing the campaign with the best goalie averages.
Matsos said: "Lehman v Aubry again. Jody has been brilliant all year and this time last year we saw Jody at his best.
"He doesn't fear these occasions, in fact it's the opposite - he loves these big winner-takes-all games."
Devils player-coach Gerad Adams insists his side are in a no-lose situation against Steelers, who are aiming for the double after their league triumph.
He said: "It has been an extremely tough season for us so we are all excited to be here. All the pressure is on them. They are the defending champions and they are also the league champions.
"Winning the play-offs would be a great achievement for this club and we will be giving it our best shot."
