Overview
The Edmonton Oilers are poised for a crucial comeback as they host the Florida Panthers Thursday for Game 3 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final. Edmonton suffered a 4-1 defeat in Game 2 on Monday and now trails the Panthers two games to none. This marks the Oilers' first appearance in the Stanley Cup Final since 2006, and the pressure is mounting to turn the series around.
Panthers' Dominance
The Panthers have shown remarkable resilience and determination throughout the series. Evan Rodrigues was the standout player in Game 2, scoring twice to propel the Panthers closer to their first championship. Florida hopes to have captain Aleksander Barkov in the lineup, although his status is uncertain after a high hit from Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl in the third period of Game 2.
NHL odds and trends for Panthers vs. Oilers:
- Oilers vs. Panthers money line: Edmonton -134, Florida +113
- Oilers vs. Panthers over/under: 5.5 goals
- Oilers vs. Panthers puck line: Edmonton -1.5 (+198)
EDM: The Oilers have been outscored 13-1 in the third period over their last nine games.
FLA: The Panthers are 5-2 when trailing after one period this postseason.
Why You Should Back the Oilers
Despite their current deficit, there are reasons to believe in a potential Oilers comeback. Edmonton failed to capitalize on numerous scoring opportunities in the series opener but managed to take a 1-0 lead in Game 2 on their first shot of the contest, thanks to Mattias Ekholm's goal at 11:17 of the first period. The Oilers' defensemen have contributed significantly, with 15 goals in the postseason. Ekholm, a 34-year-old Swede, has been a surprise offensive contributor with five goals in the playoffs, demonstrating his prowess early in the second-round series against the Vancouver Canucks.
Captain Connor McDavid continues to be a force. He notched his 27th assist of the playoffs in Game 2, putting him just four assists shy of matching Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record for most assists in one postseason. Leading all players with 32 points in these playoffs, McDavid has been held off the scoresheet in only five of Edmonton's 20 games. His nine shots on goal over the first two contests highlight his relentless effort.
The Oilers' ability to leverage McDavid's playmaking and shooting, combined with contributions from their blue line, will be critical if they hope to stage a comeback in the series.
Why You Should Back the Panthers
On the other hand, the Panthers have received standout performances from Evan Rodrigues, who has scored on all three of his shots in the series. In his first season with the Panthers, Rodrigues has stepped up at the right moment. His multi-goal performance in Game 2 set a new milestone for the Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final.
Rodrigues entered the postseason with just four goals in 16 career playoff games, making his current form all the more impressive. The Panthers, who boast a flawless 4-0 record in best-of-seven series when winning the first two games, are also demonstrating their defensive prowess. They've allowed just six goals during their current five-game winning streak. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has been stellar, conceding fewer than three goals in 12 of his last 13 outings and turning aside all but one of Edmonton’s 51 shots in the Final.
Additional contributions from key players like Sam Bennett add to Florida's strength. Bennett extended his point streak to five games with an assist on defenseman Aaron Ekblad’s empty-net goal in Game 2. He has been a consistent performer, recording points in seven of his last eight games and 10 of 14 overall this postseason.
Both teams are acutely aware of the importance of momentum. The Oilers will look to harness the advantage of playing at home to secure a much-needed win, while the Panthers aim to continue their dominance and move within striking distance of their first Stanley Cup title.