Edmonton Oilers' Comeback Attempt
The Edmonton Oilers are on the cusp of one of the most remarkable comebacks in NHL history. They have the chance to become only the second team to overturn a 3-0 series deficit and go on to win the Stanley Cup. This momentous achievement is within their reach as they prepare for the decisive Game 7 clash against the Florida Panthers in the 2024 Stanley Cup Final on Monday.
Historically, the last team to accomplish such a feat was the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1942. They triumphed over the Detroit Red Wings, setting a legendary precedent that the Oilers now aspire to follow. Should they succeed, it will be a crowning glory since their last Stanley Cup win in the 1989-1990 season.
Edmonton's Recent Dominance
With an impressive regular season record of 49-27-6, the Oilers have demonstrated formidable prowess in their recent games. Over the past three matchups, they have decisively outplayed the Panthers, outscoring them 18-5. This surge of dominance fuels their momentum as they head into this critical encounter.
The Oilers’ resurgence has been a significant boost in their quest for the Stanley Cup. Their recent performances reflect a team reinvigorated and ready to make history.
Panthers' Quest for Their First Title
On the other side, the Florida Panthers are equally driven. Ending their regular season with an outstanding 52-24-6 record, they are in pursuit of their first Stanley Cup title. Their hunger for victory is palpable, especially after last year’s disappointing five-game loss to the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final.
With the home advantage in Game 7 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, there is added pressure and opportunity for the Panthers. They aim to capitalize on this advantage and rewrite their franchise history.
The game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET, with the betting odds slightly favoring the Panthers, who are the -113 favorites. The over/under for total goals scored is set at 5.5, indicating the high stakes and anticipated intensity of this showdown.
Key Betting Lines
Betting enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on the money line, which 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.
Why You Should Back the Panthers
Central to the Panthers' efforts is center Aleksander Barkov, a pivotal player. Despite Florida's 5-1 loss in Game 6, Barkov managed to score the team's lone goal. Throughout this series, he has tallied two goals and three assists, making him the Panthers' top scorer this postseason. Over 23 playoff games, Barkov 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.
Tkachuk's contributions were crucial during the Panthers' Eastern Conference Finals win against the New York Rangers, where he scored a goal and provided four assists. He also shone in the opening-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning with three goals and six assists, including a two-goal performance in Game 3.
Why You Should Back the Oilers
For the Oilers, center Connor McDavid has been the driving force behind Edmonton's offensive prowess. Through 24 postseason games, McDavid has amassed an incredible 42 points, including eight goals and 34 assists. His performance in Game 5 was stellar, registering two goals and two assists, following a three-assist effort 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 decisive Game 6 victory. Another significant contributor is center Leon Draisaitl, who has recorded 10 goals and 21 assists during the playoffs.
Draisaitl’s impact was particularly felt in the Western Conference Finals against Dallas, notching two goals and two assists. He also excelled in the second-round series against Vancouver, finishing with three goals and nine assists. During the regular season, Draisaitl was outstanding, tallying 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 a thrilling and historic Game 7. The stakes couldn't be higher, and fans worldwide eagerly anticipate what could be a game for the ages, potentially cementing a new chapter in NHL history.