Here we go again. The Oilers and Panthers are squaring off in the Stanley Cup Final—and this one feels a little more intense than your average rematch.
Last year, Florida stole the show in Game 7, with Sam Reinhart sealing the deal. Edmonton had clawed back from a 3-0 series hole and nearly pulled off a comeback for the ages. This time around, they’re back with one goal: finish what they started.
The Panthers are still the same hard-hitting, high-drama squad, leading the league in hits and penalty minutes. They’ve got players like Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand who love to stir the pot. Edmonton’s down a key piece with Zach Hyman injured, but their depth has been huge—19 different players have contributed in these playoffs. That’s not nothing.
And while the hockey’s intense, there’s more to this story.
Canadian hockey fans are rallying behind the Oilers, and not just because they’re the last team standing from up north. There’s real national pride on the line. No Canadian team has won the Cup since the Habs did it in ‘93. Add to that some fresh political tension—trade tariffs and comments from U.S. President Donald Trump—and it’s easy to see why Canadians are backing Edmonton like never before. East or West, Oilers fans are everywhere right now.
Veterans will matter here too. Marchand’s been to four finals. Corey Perry? He’s making his fifth appearance in just six years. These guys know what it takes.
Florida’s got the momentum, but Edmonton’s got history, pride, and the hopes of a whole country behind them.
Should be a wild ride. Let’s see who wants it more.
@coachchippyy Edmonton Oilers gotta dig in this series! #nhl #coachchippy ♬ original sound - Coach Chippy 🏒
