Game Overview
The highly anticipated matchup between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers is set to take place at Rogers Place with the opening faceoff scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Edmonton enters the game as a -120 favorite (risk $120 to win $100) according to the latest Oilers vs. Panthers odds. The over/under for total goals scored stands at 5.5. Edmonton has been dominant recently, outscoring Florida 15-4 over the last seven periods. On the other hand, the Panthers have allowed 13 goals in the last two games after yielding just 12 over six contests against the New York Rangers.
Why To Back The Oilers
Connor McDavid has been nothing short of sensational, consistently showcasing his elite skills throughout the series. After recording back-to-back four-point performances, McDavid has elevated his game to new heights. While he started with a modest three points over the first three games, his explosion began in Game 5 with a goal and two assists in the second period. This level of dominance has set McDavid apart, making him the first player to register two three-point sessions in one Stanley Cup Final.
Currently, McDavid has 11 points in this series, the most in a Stanley Cup Final since 2010. He's also just two points shy of the record set by Wayne Gretzky in 1988. Additionally, McDavid leads the postseason with 42 points, nearing Gretzky's 1985 record by needing only five more points. In terms of assists, McDavid has set a new high-water mark with 34 assists in one playoff year. His ability to facilitate goals has been unparalleled, especially in high-pressure situations. McDavid has produced three goals and eight assists in four elimination games, demonstrating his nerves of steel.
However, McDavid is not carrying the load alone. Evan Bouchard has been equally impressive, setting a playoff record with 26 assists, surpassing Paul Coffey's 1985 record of 25 assists. This depth in performance adds layers to Edmonton's formidable offensive lineup, making them a tough team to beat.
Why To Back The Panthers
The Florida Panthers have a strong history of maintaining leads in playoff series. Florida has won each of the previous four playoff series when leading 3-0. Their ability to capitalize on early advantages could be crucial as the series progresses.
Evan Rodrigues has emerged as a surprise standout in this series. He has recorded four goals and two assists, a significant improvement over his three tallies in 17 games over the first three rounds of the playoffs. Rodrigues has consistently found the scoresheet, marking his presence in five of his last six contests. This streak dates back to Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Rangers, indicating his sustained momentum.
Then there's Matthew Tkachuk, who leads the Panthers with 22 points. He continues to be the backbone of Florida's offense, coming off a two-point performance and showing that he can deliver when it matters most. Tkachuk is just two points shy of the franchise record he set last postseason, underscoring his importance. In addition, Aleksander Barkov has posted 21 points, right behind Tkachuk. Barkov has a knack for delivering in clutch situations, evident from his eight two-point performances. His consistent contribution makes him a crucial asset for the Panthers, especially in high-stakes games. Notably, Barkov's two-point games are the most by a Panther in one postseason, highlighting his significance to the team’s success.
Quotes Highlighting Key Players
"McDavid currently has 11 points in this series, the most in a Stanley Cup Final since 2010," said an analyst. "His performance isn't just significant within this series—he's two points shy of the record set by Wayne Gretzky in 1988."
Another expert noted, "Furthermore, McDavid is the top scorer of this postseason, accumulating an astounding 42 points so far. In terms of assists, McDavid has set a new high-water mark with 34 assists in one playoff year."
Highlighting teammates' contributions, "Evan Bouchard has been equally impressive in his role," an insider added. Discussing the Panthers, an analyst emphasized, "Rodrigues has consistently found the scoresheet, marking his presence in five of his last six contests. This streak dates back to Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Rangers, indicating his sustained momentum."
"Tkachuk is only two points shy of the franchise record he set last postseason," remarked another expert, while adding, "Barkov has a knack for delivering in clutch situations, as evidenced by his eight two-point performances."
As the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers prepare to face off, the stage is set for an electrifying game, promising high stakes and extraordinary performances.