Oilers and Panthers tied 1-1 after back-to-back overtime battles
The Stanley Cup Final is shaping up to be a classic. The Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers are tied at one win each after two nail-biting games, both decided in overtime. The Oilers struck first, winning Game 1 with a 4-3 victory thanks to a goal from Evan Bouchard in extra time. But the Panthers responded in Game 2 with their overtime win, a 5-4 result sealed by Brad Marchand in double OT.
McDavid continues to dominate
Connor McDavid has been the standout player of the playoffs. He leads all skaters with 31 points, and his vision and speed remain unmatched. Leon Draisaitl has added 29 points, giving Edmonton a powerful one-two punch. Both have been involved in most of Edmonton’s goals this series and will be key as the series heads to Florida.
Panthers show strength in depth
The Panthers aren’t just riding one or two stars. Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk have both contributed, and Marchand’s Game 2 winner was a reminder of his experience in big moments. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky made 42 saves in Game 2, keeping the Panthers alive during stretches when the Oilers controlled play.
Series shifts to Florida for pivotal Game 3
With the series even, the pressure builds heading into Game 3 in Sunrise, Florida. The Panthers now have home ice for the next two games. Puck drop is set for Monday. Both teams will look to tighten their defence and avoid the costly turnovers that led to goals in the first two games.
Betting outlook reflects tight matchup
Oddsmakers have adjusted the NHL betting odds following two intense games. Florida is a slight favourite at -120, with Edmonton close behind at +100. McDavid remains the top pick for the Conn Smythe Trophy, though Bobrovsky is gaining attention.
Bettors also see good value in a long series, with six or seven games likely as neither team is pulling away. This has created strong value in series length wagers across multiple NHL betting Canada markets.
The Final has already delivered drama, and the best may be yet to come. The series now shifts to Florida for Game 3 on Monday, June 9, at 8 p.m. ET. Both teams have shown they can win in high-pressure situations, setting the stage for a closely contested remainder of the series.
