Electric Atmosphere as Oilers Take Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final Rematch

The Edmonton Oilers have kicked off the Stanley Cup Final rematch in style, erasing a multigoal deficit to beat the defending champion Florida Panthers 4-3 in a thrilling Game 1 on Wednesday night. The sold-out crowd at Rogers Place was on the edge of their seats as Leon Draisaitl scored the winner on the power play in overtime, capping off an incredible comeback.

A Dream Start for the Oilers

The game got off to a dream start for the Oilers, with Draisaitl scoring just 66 seconds into the first period. However, the Panthers were quick to respond, with Sam Bennett deflecting a shot past Stuart Skinner after falling into him. The goal was initially challenged by Edmonton’s Kris Knoblauch for goaltender interference, but the NHL’s situation room ruled that Jake Walman’s trip on Bennett was the cause of the contact, and the goal stood.

Panthers Take Control

The Panthers took control of the game in the first period, with Brad Marchand scoring on the power play to give his team the lead. Bennett added his second goal of the night early in the second period, putting the Panthers up 3-1. The Panthers have been nearly unbeatable when leading after the first or second intermission, with a 31-0 record over the past three playoffs.

Oilers Rally Behind McDavid

However, the Oilers were not ready to give up. Led by Connor McDavid, they rallied in the second period, with Viktor Arvidsson scoring to bring the crowd back to life. Mattias Ekholm, playing just his second game back from an extended injury absence, tied the game with 13:27 remaining in regulation, courtesy of a perfect pass from McDavid.

Goalies Steal the Show

The goalies were the stars of the show, with Stuart Skinner making 29 saves for the Oilers and Sergei Bobrovsky making several crucial stops for the Panthers. Skinner was greeted with chants of "Stuuuu" after making several big saves, including one in the first minute of overtime. Bobrovsky, on the other hand, was subjected to derisive chants of "Sergei! Sergei!" after allowing goals.

Overtime Thriller

The game went to overtime, where Draisaitl scored the winner on the power play, sending the home fans into a frenzy. The Oilers have avoided starting the series like they did last year, when they fell behind 3-0. The Panthers, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back in Game 2.

What’s Next

Game 2 is set for Friday night in Edmonton, before the series shifts to Sunrise, Florida for Games 3 and 4. The Oilers will look to build on their momentum and take a 2-0 lead, while the Panthers will aim to tie the series and regain their footing.

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Game 2 Preview

The stage is set for an epic Game 2 showdown between the Oilers and Panthers. Will the Oilers continue their momentum and take a 2-0 lead, or will the Panthers bounce back and tie the series? Tune in on Friday night to find out.

Content originally published by globalnews.ca