The 2025 Stanley Cup Final is off to a thrilling start, with the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers delivering high-octane hockey in a rematch of last year’s epic seven-game series. Game 2, played on June 6, 2025, at Rogers Place in Edmonton, showcased the intensity, skill, and drama that make this matchup a must-watch for hockey fans. Here’s a deep dive into the key moments, standout performances, and what’s at stake as the series progresses.
Game 2 Recap: A Battle to Double Overtime
Game 2 was a rollercoaster, with both teams trading blows in a contest that stretched into double overtime. The Oilers, coming off a 4-3 overtime victory in Game 1, looked to seize a commanding 2-0 series lead on home ice. The Panthers, determined to avoid falling into a deeper hole, responded with resilience despite losing their early lead.
The first period was a goal-fest, described as the highest-scoring opening frame in a Stanley Cup Final since 2016. Florida struck first just 2:07 into the game when Sam Bennett, continuing his playoff scoring tear, netted his 13th goal of the postseason on a power play, capitalizing on an Evander Kane high-sticking penalty. The Oilers answered back swiftly, with their stars—Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard—combining for seven points in the period alone. McDavid’s highlight-reel play, where he danced around Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov and defenseman Aaron Ekblad before feeding Draisaitl for his 10th playoff goal, had fans buzzing.
The Panthers regained the lead with goals from Brad Marchand and Seth Jones, but Edmonton’s depth players kept them in the fight. The score was tied 4-4 late in the third when Corey Perry, at 40 years old, scored the latest tying goal in Stanley Cup Final history with just 18 seconds left, forcing overtime. Both goaltenders, Stuart Skinner for Edmonton and Sergei Bobrovsky for Florida, made spectacular saves in the extra periods, but the Panthers ultimately prevailed, leveling the series at 1-1.
Standout Performers
Edmonton Oilers
- Connor McDavid: The Oilers’ captain was electric, showcasing his speed and vision with a jaw-dropping assist on Draisaitl’s goal. His ability to take over games remains a constant threat.
- Leon Draisaitl: With nine goals and a league-leading 28 points in the playoffs, Draisaitl’s scoring touch and clutch play are pivotal for Edmonton’s Cup aspirations.
- Corey Perry: The veteran’s late heroics underscored his value as a depth player who delivers in big moments.
Florida Panthers
- Sam Bennett: Bennett’s 13 playoff goals, including a record 12 on the road, make him a force. His power-play tally set the tone early.
- Sergei Bobrovsky: Facing 42 shots, Bobrovsky’s overtime saves, including a glove stop on Vasily Podkolzin, kept Florida alive.
- Aleksander Barkov: Despite being outmaneuvered on McDavid’s highlight play, Barkov’s defensive presence and playmaking were critical.
Key Moments That Defined Game 2
- McDavid’s Magic: McDavid’s dazzling move to set up Draisaitl’s goal was a reminder of why he’s the NHL’s most dynamic player. It shifted momentum back to Edmonton after Florida’s early strike.
- Panthers’ Penalty Kill: Florida survived a 5-on-3 disadvantage late in the first period, with Bobrovsky making key saves to limit Edmonton’s damage.
- Perry’s Record-Setting Goal: Perry’s tying goal at 19:42 of the third period broke a 74-year-old record for the latest equalizer in a Final game, sending Rogers Place into a frenzy.
- Double Overtime Drama: Both teams had golden chances, with Sam Reinhart missing a breakaway for Florida and Evan Bouchard being denied by Bobrovsky. The Panthers’ depth and grit ultimately secured the win.
What’s at Stake Moving Forward
With the series tied 1-1, the Panthers head back to Sunrise, Florida, for Games 3 and 4 with renewed confidence. Historically, 60 Stanley Cup Final series have been tied 1-1, with each team winning 30 times, making this a true coin flip. However, a 2-0 lead—had Edmonton pulled it off—has led to victory in 50 of 55 such series, highlighting the importance of Game 2’s outcome.
For the Oilers, the focus is on maintaining their offensive firepower while tightening defensively. Edmonton’s stars are clicking, but their 15-8 hit advantage in Game 2 shows they’re also winning the physical battle. The absence of Zach Hyman due to injury remains a concern, though Mattias Ekholm’s return has bolstered their blue line.
The Panthers, meanwhile, aim to replicate their Game 2 forecheck and neutral-zone dominance, which frustrated Edmonton’s speed. Their depth—10 players with double-digit playoff points—gives them an edge, but they’ll need to stay disciplined to avoid giving Edmonton’s potent power play more chances.
Why This Series Is Special
This rematch is more than just a repeat of 2024. The Oilers are hungrier, having learned from last year’s Game 7 loss, and their “steady” approach, as McDavid noted, contrasts with last season’s emotional rollercoaster. The Panthers, chasing back-to-back titles, are a deeper, more physical team after offseason additions like Brad Marchand and Seth Jones. With no Canadian team hoisting the Cup since 1993 and Florida aiming to join the elite repeat champions, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Looking Ahead to Game 3
As the series shifts to Amerant Bank Arena, expect Florida to lean on their 42.9% road power-play efficiency and Bobrovsky’s 1.57 goals-against average over his last 10 games. Edmonton, however, has the NHL’s top scorers in McDavid and Draisaitl, and their ability to exploit odd-man rushes could swing the series back in their favor. Game 3 on June 8, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET (TNT, truTV) promises another chapter in this thrilling saga.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Stanley Cup Final is living up to the hype, with Game 2 delivering heart-pounding action and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re rooting for Edmonton to end Canada’s drought or Florida to cement their dynasty, this series is a showcase of hockey at its finest. Stay tuned for more updates as these two titans battle for the ultimate prize.