Edmonton Oilers' Comeback Attempt
The Edmonton Oilers are on the cusp of making history, aiming for a remarkable comeback to potentially become only the second NHL team to overturn a 3-0 series deficit and win the Stanley Cup. Their decisive Game 7 clash against the Florida Panthers in the 2024 Stanley Cup Final is set for Monday.
The last team to achieve this feat was the 1942 Toronto Maple Leafs, who triumphed over the Detroit Red Wings. Now, the Oilers are on the brink of joining this exclusive club in the annals of NHL history.
Edmonton's Recent Dominance
In recent games, the Oilers have outclassed the Panthers, demonstrating their determination and resilience. With a regular season record of 49-27-6, Edmonton has outscored Florida 18-5 over the past three games. This resurgence has not only heightened their quest for the Stanley Cup but also marks their first potential championship since the 1989-1990 season.
As the team gears up for this critical encounter, they carry the momentum of their dominant performance, which could be a decisive factor in Game 7.
Panthers' Quest for Their First Title
On the other side of the rink, the Florida Panthers are equally motivated. With a regular season record of 52-24-6, the Panthers are striving for their inaugural Stanley Cup title. Their hunger is palpable, especially after last year's disappointing five-game loss to the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final.
The Panthers will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage in Game 7 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. Opening faceoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with the odds slightly favoring the Panthers at -113. The over/under for total goals scored is set at 5.5, underscoring the high stakes and anticipated intensity of the game.
Key Betting Lines
Betting enthusiasts will find interesting lines in this crucial matchup. The money line has Edmonton at -107 and Florida at -113. Additionally, the puck line sees Florida at -1.5 (+225).
It's noteworthy that the Oilers have hit the game total under in 28 of their last 43 away games, yielding +13.20 units. Meanwhile, the Panthers have hit the game total under in 55 of their last 90 games, garnering +21.55 units. These statistics might influence betting decisions as the final game approaches.
Why You Should Back the Panthers
A pivotal player for the Panthers is center Aleksander Barkov. Despite Florida's 5-1 loss in Game 6, Barkov scored the team's lone goal. Throughout this series, he has contributed two goals and three assists, making him the Panthers' top scorer this postseason. In 23 playoff games, he has compiled eight goals and 14 assists, tying him for the team-high 22 points.
During the regular season, Barkov recorded 23 goals and 57 assists in 73 games, underscoring his offensive prowess. Another key player for the Panthers is Matthew Tkachuk, who leads the team with 16 assists and 22 points in 23 postseason games. Tkachuk had a goal and an assist in Game 5, followed by an assist in Game 3's 4-3 victory. His significant contributions during the Panthers' Eastern Conference Finals win against the New York Rangers and the opening-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning highlight his importance.
Why You Should Back the Oilers
On the Oilers' side, center Connor McDavid has been the linchpin of Edmonton's offensive machine. Through 24 postseason games, McDavid has amassed 42 points, including eight goals and 34 assists. His performance in Game 5 was stellar, with two goals and two assists, following a three-assist game in the preceding 8-1 victory in Game 4.
McDavid's influence was critical in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Stars, where he scored a goal and added an assist in the conclusive Game 6 victory. Another significant contributor for the Oilers is center Leon Draisaitl. The 28-year-old has recorded 10 goals and 21 assists during the playoffs. His impact was especially felt in the Western Conference Finals against Dallas, where he notched two goals and two assists. Draisaitl also impressed in the second-round series against Vancouver, finishing with three goals and nine assists. During the regular season, he tallied 106 points with 41 goals and 65 assists over 81 games.
As the clock ticks down to the opening faceoff, both the Oilers and Panthers are poised for what promises to be a thrilling and historic Game 7. The stakes couldn't be higher, and fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a game that could go down in the annals of NHL history.