Oilers Defeat Panthers in Thrilling Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final

Edmonton, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers kicked off the 2025 Stanley Cup Final on a high note with a gripping 4-3 overtime victory over the Florida Panthers on Wednesday night at Rogers Place. This matchup marked a rematch of last year’s Finals, and the stakes were high as both teams aimed for an early lead in the best-of-seven series.

Pacing the Oilers was forward Leon Draisaitl, who scored the game-winner assisted by superstar Connor McDavid. The thrilling finish thrilled the home crowd, setting the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought series. Draisaitl’s decisive goal capped off a dramatic comeback after the Oilers trailed 3-2 going into the third period.

Wayne Gretzky, hockey’s legendary player and current analyst on TNT, accurately forecasted a key moment involving McDavid. During the second intermission, Gretzky noted, “Connor’s going to have to take it around the net or stop up and hit the late guy because they are cutting everything off going to the net.” McDavid executed this strategy perfectly, drawing defenders before passing to Mattias Ekholm, who tied the game with roughly six minutes remaining in regulation.

“Let me tell you something, that is called luck,” Gretzky modestly claimed post-game regarding McDavid’s well-timed play. His colleagues celebrated his analytical skills, dubbing him ‘Gretztradamus’ for his insights.

As the clock wound down in the overtime period, the intensity in Rogers Place reached a fever pitch. With a crucial power-play opportunity, the Oilers capitalized when Draisaitl scored from McDavid’s setup, sealing the game just 31 seconds before the end of overtime. Announcers Kenny Albert, Eddie Olczyk, and Brian Boucher exclaimed in exhilaration, “SCOOORE! LEON DRAISAITL! THE OILERS WIN GAME ONE!”

In contrast, Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky made 42 saves throughout the match, demonstrating impressive skill as the Oilers outshot the Panthers significantly. However, the Panthers’ defensive lapses ultimately led to their downfall, as they allowed the Oilers to accomplish a stunning comeback.

Game 2 is scheduled for Friday night, where the Oilers will look to extend their series lead at home.