Florida Panthers vs Edmonton Oilers Picks and Predictions June 9th 2025

Panthers and Oilers Set to Embrace Finals Intensity in Pivotal Game 3

The margin between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers has been razor-thin throughout the Stanley Cup Final, and with the series knotted at 1-1, all eyes turn to Game 3 in Sunrise, Fla., on Monday night.

Both teams have captured an overtime victory, showcasing the relentless pace and high drama expected in this best-of-seven showdown.

“They’re very intense games,” Panthers forward Brad Marchand said. “It’s exciting to be a part of.”

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Momentum Swings Define First Two Games

Through the first two contests, neither side has been able to establish clear dominance. The only two-goal advantage so far was erased in just over a minute during Game 1. After the Panthers surged ahead 3-1 early in the second period, the Oilers responded swiftly and ultimately clinched a 4-3 victory.

In Game 2, Edmonton forward Corey Perry scored with just 18 seconds left in regulation, setting a Stanley Cup Final record for the latest game-tying goal. Yet, the Oilers’ momentum faded in double overtime when Marchand buried the game-winner — his second goal of the night and third of the series.

“When you win the first one, you’re disappointed when you don’t follow up and win the second one, but we’re going (to Florida) with a split,” Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said. “That’s fine with us.”

Marchand Making His Mark

Since being acquired from the Boston Bruins on March 7, Brad Marchand has been a catalyst for Florida. Despite starting his stint with the Panthers sidelined due to injury, the 37-year-old has ignited the team’s playoff run, tallying seven goals and 10 assists through 19 postseason games.

“He’s been incredible for us this whole playoffs, scoring massive goals at massive times,” Panthers forward Sam Bennett praised. “That one (in overtime) was definitely the biggest.”

Marchand’s knack for delivering in the clutch continues to shine, now boasting 10 career goals in the Stanley Cup Final, including two short-handed.

“He’s a gamer. He’s a competitor,” noted Panthers defenseman Seth Jones. “He brings so much energy to our team on and off the ice.”

Defensive Depth Proving Crucial

Jones, another trade acquisition from the Chicago Blackhawks, has seamlessly adapted to Florida’s aggressive defensive system. Panthers blueliner Gustav Forsling emphasized the team’s unified style of play:

“Our system is very aggressive. You need to be able to skate and I think all those guys can skate really well. I think everyone’s on the same page and it’s very easy to jump into our team and our lineup.”

The Panthers also welcomed positive news as veteran defenseman Aaron Ekblad participated in Sunday’s optional practice after taking a puck off his hand in Game 2’s second overtime.

Oilers Confident Heading Into Road Test

While Edmonton stumbled early in the playoffs on the road, they’ve since excelled away from home, winning six of their last seven games outside Alberta.

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“We know we’re comfortable playing on the road,” said Knoblauch. “We’ve won a lot of games so far in the regular season and playoffs, so we’ll get ready for Game 3.”

However, the Oilers face a potential lineup challenge with center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, fourth on the team in postseason points, listed as a game-time decision due to an undisclosed reason.

Superstars Stepping Up

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl continue to power the Oilers’ quest for their first Stanley Cup since 1990. McDavid has racked up five assists through two games, while Draisaitl has notched three goals and an assist, including the decisive overtime tally in Game 1.

As the series heats up, those looking to gain an edge can explore the latest NHL predictions and picks to stay ahead of the action.

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