Edmonton Oilers' Comeback Attempt
The Edmonton Oilers are on the cusp of a remarkable achievement as they strive to become only the second team in NHL history to overturn a 3-0 series deficit and win the Stanley Cup. This historic endeavor will culminate in a decisive Game 7 against the Florida Panthers in the 2024 Stanley Cup Final on Monday.
The last team to capture such an elusive comeback was the 1942 Toronto Maple Leafs, who bested the Detroit Red Wings in their historic series. The Oilers are now on the brink of possibly making history themselves.
Edmonton's Recent Dominance
With a regular season record of 49-27-6, the Oilers have demonstrated significant prowess in the last three games, outscoring the Panthers 18-5. This resurgence has significantly bolstered their chances of capturing their first Stanley Cup since the 1989-1990 season. Heading into this critical encounter, Edmonton carries considerable momentum from their dominant form.
Panthers' Quest for Their First Title
On the other side of the ice, the Florida Panthers, who concluded the regular season with a 52-24-6 record, are vying for their first-ever Stanley Cup title. The team’s hunger for victory is palpable, especially after the disappointment of last year’s five-game loss to the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final.
With the home advantage for Game 7 at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, the Panthers are poised to capitalize on the opportunity and potentially rewrite their franchise’s history. The opening faceoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with the Panthers slightly favored with odds at -113.
Key Betting Lines
For betting enthusiasts, the key lines have Edmonton at -107 and Florida at -113 on the money line. Additionally, the puck line sees Florida favored at -1.5 (+225). The over/under for total goals scored is set at 5.5, a figure highlighting the high stakes and anticipated intensity of the match.
It’s noteworthy that the Oilers have hit the game total under in 28 of their last 43 away games, generating +13.20 units. Meanwhile, the Panthers have hit the game total under in 55 of their last 90 games, accruing +21.55 units.
Why You Should Back the Panthers
Center Aleksander Barkov remains a pivotal player for the Panthers. Despite their 5-1 loss in Game 6, Barkov managed to score the team's lone goal. Throughout the series, he has contributed two goals and three assists, making him the Panthers’ postseason top scorer.
In 23 playoff games, he has amassed eight goals and 14 assists, tying 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 is Matthew Tkachuk, who leads the team with 16 assists and 22 points in 23 postseason games. Tkachuk’s contributions were crucial during the Panthers’ Eastern Conference Finals victory against the New York Rangers, where he scored a goal and added four assists. He also stood out in the opening-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, finishing with three goals and six assists, including a two-goal performance in Game 3.
Why You Should Back the Oilers
On the Oilers' side, center Connor McDavid has been at the heart of Edmonton’s offense. In 24 postseason games, McDavid has accumulated 42 points, including eight goals and 34 assists. His standout performance in Game 5, where he registered two goals and two assists, followed a three-assist game in the prior 8-1 victory in Game 4.
McDavid's influence was also critical in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Stars, where he scored a goal and added an assist in the series-clinching 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 particularly felt in the Western Conference Finals against Dallas, where he tallied two goals and two assists. Draisaitl also excelled in the second-round series against Vancouver, finishing with three goals and nine assists. During the regular season, he was outstanding, racking up 106 points with 41 goals and 65 assists over 81 games.
Anticipation for Game 7
As the clock ticks down to the opening faceoff, both the Oilers and Panthers are ready 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 as a monumental moment in NHL history.