Articles / Draisaitl goal in OT lifts Oilers past Panthers in Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final

Draisaitl goal in OT lifts Oilers past Panthers in Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final

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NHL.com
Jun 5, 2025 6:02 AM

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In an exhilarating Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers faced off against the Edmonton Oilers, showcasing high-energy gameplay and standout performances from star players. The Panthers struck first, with Matthew Tkachuk finding the back of the net early in the first period, igniting the Florida crowd. The Oilers quickly responded, led by Connor McDavid, who displayed his remarkable speed and playmaking ability, equalizing the score with a brilliant solo effort.

As the game progressed, both teams exchanged chances, but it was the Panthers' defense that shone through, thwarting several dangerous plays from the explosive Oilers’ offense. Sergei Bobrovsky made key saves, keeping Florida in the game, while Evan Bouchard's powerful shot was a constant threat from the blue line for Edmonton.

In the third period, the tension rose as the game remained tied, but Tkachuk once again stepped up, scoring his second goal, which ultimately became the game-winner. As the final buzzer sounded, the Panthers celebrated a thrilling 3-2 victory, taking a crucial lead in the series. With both teams showcasing their talent, the excitement for Game 2 is palpable, with fans eager to see if the Oilers can bounce back in this tightly contested series.