The Elite League playoffs are heating up, with the quarter-finals delivering several surprises. The top-seeded Belfast Giants were surprisingly defeated by the eighth-seed Glasgow Clan in a dramatic penalty shootout. Similarly, the Nottingham Panthers were unable to overcome the Manchester Storm across two legs.
However, the favourites did advance in other matchups: the Cardiff Devils triumphed over the Coventry Blaze, and the Sheffield Steelers eliminated the Guildford Flames. Following this exciting round, we present our first Team of the Week selections for the Elite League playoffs.
Sami Aittokallio, Glasgow Clan
Sami Aittokallio was instrumental in the Glasgow Clan’s upset victory over the heavily favored Belfast Giants. The Finnish goaltender made an outstanding 65 saves out of 67 shots faced, leading his team to a 3-2 aggregate win. Aittokallio has been a consistent performer throughout the season, boasting a 2.48 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage over 42 games. He will be a significant obstacle for the Sheffield Steelers in the semi-finals.
Joe Hazeldine, Glasgow Clan
Joe Hazeldine showcased his defensive prowess by blocking six shots in just 33 minutes of total ice time during the quarter-finals. His consistent and tenacious play, though often overlooked, earns him a well-deserved spot on our Team of the Week.
Dominic Cormier, Sheffield Steelers
When the Sheffield Steelers needed a spark in the second leg against the Guildford Flames, Dominic Cormier delivered. Less than two minutes into the game, Cormier intercepted a play, drove to the net, and redirected a shot past the goaltender to open the scoring. This early goal set the tone for the Steelers, who went on to build a significant lead and secure their place in the semi-finals. Cormier played a crucial role, logging 50 minutes of ice time, and is expected to be a key player in the upcoming matches.
Kristoff Kontos, Cardiff Devils
Kristoff Kontos is currently one of the Elite League’s most in-form players. He was a dominant force against the Coventry Blaze in the quarter-finals, accumulating four points (one goal, three assists). Kontos has recorded at least one point in his last 13 consecutive appearances, amassing 24 points during this impressive streak. He also excelled in the face-off circle, winning 20 of his 28 draws against Coventry, which eased pressure in the defensive zone and contributed to offensive opportunities.
Gary Haden, Manchester Storm
Gary Haden’s importance to the Manchester Storm is undeniable. He made critical plays throughout the quarter-finals, starting with a primary assist on the series’ opening goal and capping it off with a powerplay goal in the second leg. Playing on Cam Critchlow’s second line, Haden’s creativity is vital for the Storm as they reach the final four for the first time.
Sam Tremblay, Sheffield Steelers
Sam Tremblay scored two goals in the Sheffield Steelers’ second-leg victory over the Guildford Flames. His first goal was a highlight reel effort, stemming from a turnover at the blue line, followed by a skillful deke around the goaltender. Tremblay, who recorded 18 points (seven goals, 11 assists) in 48 regular-season games, is entering the Playoff Finals Weekend in excellent form.
