The Stanley Cup playoffs are renowned for their intensity and physicality, making it one of the most demanding postseason tournaments across all sports. It’s exceedingly rare for a team to reach the Stanley Cup Final in consecutive years, let alone do so in back-to-back seasons. Even more uncommon is the occurrence of the same two teams facing off in successive Finals.
In 2025, this rare phenomenon became a reality. The previous year’s Finals saw the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers engage in a dramatic seven-game series. After falling behind 3-0, the Panthers mounted a historic comeback, only to lose Game 7 and see the Oilers claim their first-ever Stanley Cup. Now, these two franchises are set to meet again, beginning with Game 1 on Wednesday.
What are the key differences between these teams now compared to last season? How confident can each squad be in their goaltending? And what are the pivotal factors and uncertainties that could influence the outcome of this rematch? ESPN’s Ryan S. Clark and Kristen Shilton analyze the storylines ahead of this heavyweight rematch.
Assessing the Teams’ Improvements Since Last Year
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers appear more formidable this postseason, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a desire to avenge their narrow loss in last year’s Finals. Their journey has been marked by resilience, especially considering their near-miraculous comeback against the Los Angeles Kings in the first round, where they overcame a 2-0 series deficit to advance. Similarly, in the second round against the Vegas Golden Knights, they faced adversity early but responded with a historic five consecutive comeback victories, including a pivotal Game 1 where they surrendered the first two goals but rallied to win.
Throughout this playoff run, Edmonton has demonstrated a knack for resilience and clutch performances, especially in tight situations. Their ability to adapt and overcome early setbacks has been a defining trait, making them a more confident and dangerous opponent than last season.
Florida Panthers
Last year, the Panthers relied heavily on their depth, but this season, their roster has expanded significantly, adding more firepower and versatility. The team has seen an increase in goal scorers, with 19 different players lighting the lamp this postseason compared to 15 last year. Their offensive output has improved, averaging 3.88 goals per game, up from previous seasons, while their defensive discipline has also strengthened, allowing only 2.29 goals per game and boasting the best power-play efficiency at 23.2%. Their penalty kill remains exceptional at 87.9%, the best in the playoffs.
Florida’s collective defensive effort has been impressive, limiting high-octane offenses like Tampa Bay and Toronto, which led the league in scoring during the regular season. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has elevated his game, posting stronger numbers than last year, which has been crucial for the Panthers’ success. General Manager Bill Zito’s strategic acquisitions, including Brad Marchand and Seth Jones, have added grit and skill, creating a balanced team capable of both physicality and finesse.
Matthew Tkachuk emphasizes the significance of this rematch: “We believe we’re the two best teams.”
Where Do These Teams Fall Short Compared to Last Year?
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers’ penalty-killing efficiency has dipped this postseason, with their success rate dropping from an impressive 94.3% last year to approximately 66% now, ranking as one of the lowest among playoff teams. This decline has been partly due to personnel changes; key players like Cody Ceci, Vincent Desharnais, and Ryan McLeod, who contributed significantly to penalty killing last year, are no longer with the team. Additionally, the return of defenseman Mattias Ekholm after missing the entire playoffs due to injury has been a recent development, and his impact remains to be fully realized.
These adjustments raise questions about Edmonton’s ability to replicate last year’s defensive resilience and special teams performance. Will their current roster and strategic shifts be enough to prevent a repeat of last year’s early exit?
Florida Panthers
While the Panthers have been impressive overall, they’ve shown moments of vulnerability, especially in the early stages of their recent series against Toronto and Carolina. Defensive lapses and turnovers have occasionally exposed their weaknesses against high-caliber opponents. Their increased number of giveaways-averaging 12.23 per 60 minutes compared to 9.67 last year-highlight the importance of puck management and disciplined play. Edmonton’s aggressive forecheck and skilled offense could exploit these mistakes if Florida isn’t careful.
Maintaining composure and minimizing penalties will be critical for Florida. Their ability to stay disciplined while applying pressure could determine whether they can sustain their success or succumb to the pressure of the moment.
Leon Draisaitl expresses his eagerness: “I’m excited for another shot at winning the Stanley Cup.”
Evaluating Goaltender Confidence Levels
Edmonton Oilers
Stuart Skinner’s confidence has surged since he was reinserted into the starting role in Game 3 against Vegas. His performance has been stellar, including back-to-back shutouts and a .920 save percentage over the last three games of the conference finals. His resurgence has alleviated concerns about Edmonton’s goaltending, which was questioned after a rough start in earlier rounds. With Skinner playing at this level, the Oilers’ chances of success have significantly increased, earning him a confidence rating of 8.5 out of 10.
Florida Panthers
Sergei Bobrovsky has been a revelation, elevating his game at crucial moments. His recent stats are outstanding, with a .944 save percentage and a 1.34 goals-against average in the second round, including two shutouts. His experience and recent form give the Panthers a high level of confidence in net, rated at 9 out of 10. Meanwhile, the younger Edmonton goalie, Skinner, has also shown resilience, but Bobrovsky’s playoff pedigree and recent dominance make him a formidable obstacle for Edmonton’s offense.
Critical Factors and Matchup Dynamics
Edmonton’s Strategy Without Zach Hyman
Hyman’s injury in the conference finals has left a significant void in Edmonton’s physical game. Last postseason, Hyman led the team with 16 goals and was their most aggressive player, contributing 111 hits. His absence raises questions about who will step up to fill that physical role and how Edmonton’s depth will adapt. The team has relied on multiple forwards to compensate, with players like Evander Kane and Kasperi Kapanen stepping into larger roles. The challenge will be maintaining their physical edge and offensive production without Hyman’s presence.
Florida’s Offensive Firepower
Florida’s success hinges on their top scorers-Barkov, Bennett, Reinhart, Verhaeghe, and Tkachuk-finding their rhythm early. Edmonton’s defense is opportunistic and explosive, making it essential for Florida’s stars to perform at their best. The battle between Edmonton’s dynamic offense and Florida’s disciplined defense will be a defining aspect of the series. Florida’s ability to contain Edmonton’s top players while maximizing their own scoring opportunities could be the key to victory.
Expert analyst Joe Fortenbaugh shares his prediction for the Stanley Cup rematch, favoring the Panthers to defend their title.
Pre-Game Key Questions
Can Edmonton Sustain Their Recent Adjustments?
The Oilers have undergone significant strategic and personnel changes throughout the playoffs, including their defensive lineup and goaltending. Their ability to maintain defensive consistency without Ekholm, and to replicate their offensive resilience, will be crucial. Will these modifications be enough to avoid last year’s early exit and secure their first Stanley Cup since 1990?
Impact of Penalties on the Series
Florida’s disciplined yet aggressive style has kept them close to the line of penalties, often drawing more infractions than any other team. Their high hit count and physical play are integral to their identity, but this approach also risks giving Edmonton power-play opportunities-where they excel, having scored six goals in the Western Conference finals. The balance between aggression and discipline could determine the series’ outcome, with special teams playing a pivotal role.
Both teams boast strong special teams units-Edmonton’s power play is potent, while Florida’s penalty kill is among the best. The contest between these units will be a fascinating subplot, with game management and discipline likely to influence the final result.
Predictions and Betting Insights for Game 1
Anton Lundell to record over 0.5 assists (+210): Edmonton’s top line, led by Connor McDavid, often faces off against Matthew Tkachuk’s line, especially when the teams change lines. Lundell, paired with Brad Marchand and Eetu Luostarinen, has been effective at 5-on-5, scoring 10 goals and allowing only two this postseason. A helper from Lundell could be a valuable addition to your bets.
Vasily Podkolzin to record over 4.5 hits (+115): Edmonton’s increased physicality this year suggests Podkolzin, averaging five hits per game, is poised to continue his aggressive style, especially in home games where he’s been particularly impactful.
Luostarinen to score at least one goal (+650): For a higher payout, betting on Luostarinen to find the net is a strategic move. He’s second on the Panthers in 5-on-5 goals and generates numerous scoring chances, making him a sneaky pick for a game-changing goal.
