Oilers vs. Panthers: 2025 Stanley Cup Final Preview

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final — a rare back-to-back championship rematch that promises intensity, skill, and legacy-defining moments. After falling short in seven games last year, Edmonton returns hungry, while Florida looks to cement its dynasty status with a second straight Cup.

A Historic Rematch

This year’s Final marks the 12th time in NHL history that the same teams have met in consecutive years, and the first since the Penguins-Red Wings clashes in 2008 and 2009. Last year, Florida won its first-ever Stanley Cup in franchise history, defeating Edmonton in a hard-fought seven-game series.

Now, the Oilers have a chance to flip the script. Teams who have lost in the Final and returned the next year have had mixed results, but the 1984 Edmonton Oilers and 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins proved it’s possible to come back stronger and win it all.

Historical stakes: The Oilers haven’t won a Stanley Cup since 1990, and bringing the Cup back to Canada would end a 32-year drought for Canadian teams.

Key Players and Storylines

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl: Relentless Forces

McDavid leads all playoff scorers with 26 points, showing his elite playmaking and puck control. Draisaitl isn't far behind with 25, continuing to build on his reputation as one of the most dangerous two-way forwards in hockey. They’ve combined for over 50 points, dictating the pace of the Oilers' offense.

Why it matters: For McDavid, often labeled the best player of his generation, winning a Stanley Cup would silence critics and secure his legacy.

Brad Marchand: A Final Chapter?

Now 37, veteran Brad Marchand joined the Panthers for one last run. A former Cup winner with Boston in 2011, Marchand has hinted this may be his final appearance in a Stanley Cup Final. His grit, leadership, and ability to get under opponents’ skin make him a valuable X-factor.

Emotional angle: Florida’s locker room is rallying behind Marchand, giving this series a potential “win it for Brad” narrative.

Goaltending Battle: Bobrovsky vs. Skinner

Sergei Bobrovsky continues his postseason resurgence, turning back the clock with key saves and calming presence in the Panthers’ crease. Meanwhile, Stuart Skinner has been inconsistent but has made timely stops when needed. If Skinner can elevate his game, it could be the difference-maker.

Key stat: Bobrovsky enters the Final with a .921 save percentage, while Skinner's hovers near .899 — a notable gap Florida could exploit.

Team Dynamics

Edmonton Oilers: Top-Heavy but Dangerous

The Oilers rely heavily on their top six forwards and power play. Zach Hyman's absence due to injury is a concern — he’s been a major contributor with 11 playoff goals. Fortunately, Connor Brown has returned to action, adding depth and experience.

Special teams edge: Edmonton’s power play is operating at over 30%, the best of the postseason.

Florida Panthers: Depth, Grit, and Structure

Florida has built a reputation for playing fast, physical, and disciplined hockey. With 21 of 22 skaters contributing at least a point, they roll four lines effectively. Players like Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov have led by example, blending toughness with skill.

Coaching advantage: Paul Maurice has molded this Panthers team into a well-oiled playoff machine with tight neutral-zone structure and aggressive forechecking.

Betting Odds and Predictions

As of June 1, sportsbooks see the series as a toss-up. The Panthers are slightly favored in some models due to last year’s result and superior depth. However, public money is backing the Oilers — 62% of bets and 77% of the money at DraftKings are on Edmonton to win the Cup.

Prediction from analysts: Many experts expect another six- or seven-game series, with Edmonton’s high-end talent facing off against Florida’s structured depth and goaltending.

Game Schedule (All times ET)

• Game 1: Wed, June 4 – at Edmonton - 8:00 pm
• Game 2: Fri, June 6 – at Edmonton - 8:00 pm
• Game 3: Sun, June 8 – at Florida - 8:00 pm
• Game 4: Tue, June 10 – at Florida - 8:00 pm
• Game 5-7 (if necessary): June 13, 15, 17

Final Thoughts

This Stanley Cup Final is more than a rematch — it’s a battle for identity and legacy. Can Edmonton's stars finally deliver the Cup? Or will Florida’s depth and structure lead them to back-to-back championships?

Either way, hockey fans are in for a treat.