NHL News: Panthers send direct message to Oilers ahead of Stanley Cup Final showdown

The 2025 Stanley Cup Final will feature a familiar matchup as the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers prepare to face off for the second consecutive year. Both teams advanced through the playoff bracket with strong performances, setting the stage for another high-stakes clash.

Florida overcame a near-elimination scenario against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round, avoiding a 3-0 series deficit before regaining control. Edmonton began its postseason run trailing 0-2 against the Los Angeles Kings but responded by winning four straight games to move on.

With both teams eliminating their respective opponents in the Conference Finals—Florida defeating the Carolina Hurricanes in five games and the Oilers closing out the Dallas Stars with a 6-3 win—the rematch is now official. Following the confirmation, Florida’s X account posted a brief message: “We meet again.”

Superstar talent returns to the spotlight

The series will feature elite players on both sides. Connor McDavid, who has previously won the Conn Smythe Trophy, continues to lead the Oilers with significant contributions on both ends of the ice. Alongside him, Leon Draisaitl captured the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy this season after recording 52 goals.

Together, McDavid and Draisaitl have tallied 51 points during the 2025 playoffs. Their offensive production has played a key role in Edmonton’s path to the Final.

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Panthers’ team-based depth in focus

Florida enters the Final with consistent production spread across its lineup. Ten Panthers players have recorded at least 10 points in the postseason, highlighting a system that leverages depth and balance. Key contributors such as Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, and Sam Bennett are part of a roster that has advanced through multiple series with contributions from all lines.

Historical context of Final rematches

This year’s Final marks the first consecutive rematch in the Stanley Cup Final since the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings faced off in back-to-back seasons in 2008 and 2009. In that instance, the team that lost the first meeting won the second.

Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final is scheduled to take place Wednesday night at Rogers Place in Edmonton. Broadcast details and official start times will be announced by the NHL.

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