The rematch between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers got off to a bang in last night’s Game 1 face-off. If this game is an indication of things to come for this series, fans will be served a delightful treat with chocolate-covered hockey pucks on top. One thing that makes this match-up a must-see event is how well both teams can perform under pressure. With these teams slowly becoming a rivalry over these past few seasons, as of this game, the teams appear evenly matched. Let’s dive into a few takeaways from the game.
The Panthers Were Dominant Until They Hit the Pause Button
Florida looked like they were well on their way to securing a victory over the Oilers for the first two periods. They were especially aggressive in the second period. However once the third period came, it was obvious Edmonton was crawling and fighting their way back. The question to think about is if the Panthers sat back on their lead since they have won many games over the season when they’ve had the lead after the second.
Edmonton Was Not Going Away Easily
Things looked a little iffy for the majority of the game, especially with players getting shielded and the Oilers leaving their goalie in the lurch at times. They relied on their defense to make it this far, but eventually, they were able to generate chances offensively. Connor McDavid set up defenseman Mattias Ekholm for the tying goal 6:33 into the third period. After not having a single goal in the 2024 Cup Final, Leon Draisaitl’s game-winning power-play goal at 19:29 of overtime came with Tomas Nosek in the penalty box for a delay of game penalty.
If This Trajectory Continues, The 2025 Playoffs Will Be Memorable
If Game 1 is an indication of things to come, fans will have a nail-biting experience during a seven-game stretch. Despite that expectation, most know to temper their thoughts with a dose of reality. Teams can choke. It is a proven fact and occurs many, many times. However, this match-up feels different from last year.
Edmonton appears to be more aggressive and ruthless than last season, and in the latter part of the game, it was on display. They will also have to work to keep penalties down since their penalty kill is not as impressive as it was last season. The team has been looking for a comeback, and the next few games will tell fans if they have mastered it. Pitting that against the depth the Panthers have plus their ratio of goals vs. goals against has improved since last season. Sergei Bobrovsky has leveled up and proven himself over the last two series to help the Panthers get this far.
Game 2 is June, 2025 at 8:00 P.M. EST on TNT, truTV, MAX and Sportsnet.
