In another thrilling overtime game, the Florida Panthers emerged victorious over the Edmonton Oilers. The first period of Game 2 saw both teams fight it out, resulting in five goals and eleven penalties. The Panthers struck first thanks to Sam Bennett’s goal during a power play. Then, thanks to Evander Kane and Evan Bouchard, Edmonton scored two goals in under two minutes. The Panthers tied it back up with a goal by Seth Jones.
The respective second and third periods, while entertaining, did not live up to the excitement of the first. Florida scored two goals in the second period, and Corey Perry, in the last seconds of the third, tied it up for Edmonton and sent it into overtime. Fans were then blessed with double overtime, ending only when Brad Marchand scored to give Florida the win.
What did we learn from this game?
Panthers Regained Focus Then Let Up
After a crazy first period, the Panthers regrouped and became more disciplined. They spent a lot of time in the Oilers’ zone and came away with two goals to take the lead. Florida kept the momentum on their side by keeping it at five-on-five, unlike the first period. Though they found a way to keep control on their side, they were not able to fully put the Oilers away. This gave Edmonton a chance to get back in the game during the third period.
The Oilers Tried But Still had Missed Opportunities
Resilience seems to be a theme for this team. Despite the momentum shift after the first period, Edmonton did not lie down and give up. They took advantage of opportunities given to them by Florida. The question going forward is about what went on in the second period. The Oilers need to determine why Florida regained control and prevented scoring opportunities.
Who Will Fold First After Game 2
If the first two games are any indication, these teams will battle it out until the bitter end. Three overtime periods in two games, while exciting, serve as a reminder of how long this playoff process is. The team that wins will be the one that can fight through the exhaustion and emotions. Easier said than done.
This is not sustainable, and eventually, one team will break down and make mistakes. Florida is governed by their playoff experience and tempered with normal expectations. The Oilers will have to find a how they can stop being just the comeback team and assert more dominance. They will need to shut the Panthers down and take control from them.
This series comes down to the “comeback kings” versus “win at all costs”. Each team is all in, so the will to win will decide who comes out holding the cup.
Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final is scheduled for Monday, June 9 at 8:00 P.M. EST in Sunrise, Florida.
