The Stanley Cup playoffs are famously demanding, making consecutive appearances in the Final rare. Even rarer is a rematch between the same two teams. Yet, here we are in 2025, with the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers set to face off again after their thrilling seven-game series in 2024. Last year, the Panthers took a 3-0 lead, only for the Oilers to force a Game 7 before Florida ultimately secured its first Cup. Now, the teams are back for a sequel. This preview examines how the teams have changed, the confidence levels in their goaltenders, and the key factors and lingering questions heading into this highly anticipated rematch.
How the Teams Have Improved Since Last Season
Oilers
Edmonton appears significantly more determined, likely motivated by their near-comeback and eventual loss in the 2024 Final. This postseason, they`ve demonstrated a mastery of staging comebacks while also preventing opponents from doing the same. They rallied from a 2-0 deficit against the Kings, set a playoff record with five consecutive comeback wins against the Golden Knights, and shut down the high-scoring Stars, allowing only five goals total over the final four games of their series after a Game 1 rout.
Panthers
Florida boasts even greater depth this year. They`ve had more unique goal scorers and show improved team statistics: scoring more goals per game, allowing fewer, and excelling on special teams with a stronger power play and the playoff`s best penalty kill. Their commitment to defense is evident in fewer shots against and success in neutralizing top offenses like Tampa Bay and Carolina. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky`s performance has also elevated. Key offseason additions have contributed to a formidable blend of physicality and skill.
How the Teams Have Changed (Not Necessarily Worse)
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One area of decline is their penalty kill, which has dropped to a 66% success rate this postseason compared to an elite 94.3% last year. This is partly attributed to changes in personnel who previously played significant short-handed minutes. While Mattias Ekholm, a key PKer, returned late in the Western Conference Final after missing time, his absence affected the unit.
Panthers
While difficult to find weaknesses, Florida has shown occasional defensive vulnerabilities, particularly defending against quick rushes from teams like Toronto and Carolina. They`re also averaging more giveaways this postseason compared to last year. Against Edmonton`s speed and skill, managing and protecting the puck will be critical.
Goaltender Confidence Ratings
Oilers: 8.5/10
Stuart Skinner has had a remarkable turnaround. After being benched earlier, he returned and became a vital player, posting two shutouts and a strong .920 save percentage over the final three games against the Stars, answering questions about his ability to win without a perfect performance.
Panthers: 9/10
Sergei Bobrovsky has elevated his game as the playoffs progressed. After an average start, he transformed into `Playoff Bob` in the later rounds, posting elite numbers with a .944 save percentage and 1.34 goals-against average in his last 10 appearances. A veteran who has experienced both highs and lows in the Final, Bobrovsky is currently playing at his peak.
X Factors for the Cup Final
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A major question mark for Edmonton is how they will compensate for the absence of Zach Hyman, who is injured. Hyman was a key goal-scorer last year and their most physical player this postseason. His injury creates voids in physicality, the top six, and the power play, which their depth players will need to fill.
Panthers
Florida`s success may depend on how their top players perform against Edmonton`s superstars. While both teams have impressive scoring depth, Edmonton`s Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl lead playoff scoring significantly ahead of Florida`s Aleksander Barkov and Sam Bennett. The Panthers need consistent production from their core group, including Barkov, Bennett, Sam Reinhart, Carter Verhaeghe, and Matthew Tkachuk, not only to contain Edmonton`s dynamic offense but also to generate their own scoring chances.
Big Questions Heading into Game 1
Oilers
Can this team, which has excelled at making crucial in-series adjustments throughout the playoffs, continue to adapt successfully? Their ability to rally from deficits, shut down opponents, navigate injuries (like Ekholm`s return and Hyman`s absence), and manage their goaltending has been key to their run. Will they find the right solutions against the Panthers?
Panthers
How will penalty discipline affect the outcome? Florida is known for its physical, aggressive style and is the most penalized team in the playoffs, though they also draw the most penalties. Against Edmonton`s potent power play, finding the right balance between physicality and staying out of the box will be crucial. The special teams battle, pitting Edmonton`s power play against Florida`s top-ranked penalty kill, could significantly sway the series.
