Oilers and Panthers Clash in Stanley Cup Final Rematch

Edmonton, Alberta – The 2025 Stanley Cup Final kicked off Tuesday night as the Edmonton Oilers hosted the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of their highly anticipated rematch. The Panthers, who defeated the Oilers in last year’s final, aim to repeat their success while Edmonton seeks redemption.

Fans gathered at Rogers Place as the puck dropped at 8 p.m. EDT. Just 66 seconds into the game, Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl scored, making it the sixth fastest opening goal in Stanley Cup Final history. His quick strike set the tone for an intense game.

The Panthers quickly responded with their own offensive efforts. Sam Bennett scored Florida’s first goal during a chaotic sequence that left the Edmonton crowd stunned. The Panthers capitalized on a misunderstanding in the Oilers’ defense, giving Bennett his 12th goal of the postseason.

The game remained close, with both teams trading chances. Panthers’ Matthew Tkachuk and Carter Verhaeghe had several opportunities but were thwarted by Oilers’ goalie Stuart Skinner. Skinner’s performance was crucial as the Oilers struggled with their penalties, notably losing a challenge that allowed two early goals against them.

As the second period progressed, the Oilers shifted gears and created chances of their own. A wave of pressure in the offensive zone led to two strong shots, but their comeback efforts were matched by Florida’s defense. Oilers’ Viktor Arvidsson found the net, narrowing the lead to just one goal after connecting through screens against goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky.

The action continued to escalate as each team fought for puck control. A missed opportunity by Oilers’ Janmark in front of the goal highlighted the frantic pace of the match. Meanwhile, Bennett expanded Florida’s lead once again with another deft move around Skinner.

Following two intense periods, the score stood at Panthers 3, Oilers 2. Both teams showed resilience, hinting at the fierce competition still to come in this series. The Oilers have proven to be a formidable opponent during the playoffs, but the Panthers seem determined to defend their title. The next game is scheduled for Friday, June 6, in Edmonton.