Oilers and Panthers Clash in Anticipated Stanley Cup Final

EDMONTON, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers are primed for the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers, set to begin on Wednesday night. Despite missing right winger Zach Hyman due to injury, the Oilers are optimistic about their chances, thanks to the improved health of their roster compared to last year.

‘‘It’s not just injuries,’’ said Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch. ‘‘We’ve been able to play fewer games. We’ve had long breaks between two series. Last year, we never had that.’’

Evander Kane, who struggled through the playoffs last year with a sports hernia, is back and playing at a higher level. He has recorded five goals and 11 points in 15 games this postseason and has moved up to the second line.

‘‘I’m really excited we get another crack at it this year,’’ Kane said. ‘‘If we need some guys that can be a little more physical, we can be more physical. Unfortunately, we’re going to have to use that depth, and we’re going to have to get the job done with it.’’

Connor Brown, returning from an injury sustained in the previous series, will also add depth to the lineup. The Oilers believe they are better equipped to handle Florida’s potent attack than they were a year prior.

On defense, Mattias Ekholm returns after a lower-body injury and played just under 16 minutes in his playoff debut. Ekholm told reporters he feels strong and trusts his body as he re-enters the lineup.

In goal, the Oilers’ Stuart Skinner faces off against recipe for success Sergei Bobrovsky of the Panthers. Skinner is eager to prove himself following past playoff obstacles. He boasts a record of 6-2 with a .931 save percentage this postseason.

As the Cup Final looms, Skinner acknowledges the challenge: ‘‘The Panthers are a different beast… It won’t be easy for either goalie. We have to be at our best to stop them.’’

The Panthers, meanwhile, have been dominant in their pursuit of consecutive championships, showcasing a balanced roster and depth that has overwhelmed previous opponents. They are poised to assert their strength against a hungry Oilers team hoping for redemption, setting the stage for an exciting series.