NHL

Panthers Secured a 5–2 Game 5 Victory Over Oilers; One Victory Away From Repeating as Champions

June 16, 2025
Judium Media

On Saturday night, the Florida Panthers dominated Edmonton, winning Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final 5–2 and putting themselves within one win of winning the title again. The Panthers turned around their Game 4 collapse with a brave combination of clutch offense, unwavering defense, and seasoned leadership, and they are now ready to wrap up an unprecedented back-to-back victory.

Imposing Defense & Shut-Down Strategy

Florida’s ability to stifle the Oilers’ star pair was crucial to their victory. Veteran forward Sam Reinhart described how the Panthers disrupted Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl by using disciplined checking, tight defensive zones, and constant pressure, so reducing their chances and energy on the ice.

Their stifling play wasn’t just talk. Edmonton’s power play was frequently thwarted by Florida’s penalty kill, and goalie Sergei Bobrovsky held firm with 19 saves, securing a long-lasting defensive stronghold.

Veteran Leaders Deliver

Already one of the most successful postseason players of his generation, Brad Marchand opened with a two-goal performance to increase his tournament total to six and join Mario Lemieux as one of just two players in recent decades to score five or more goals in multiple Stanley Cup Final series.

With his 15th playoff goal, Sam Bennett maintained his lead and extended his personal goal run, continuing his incredible playoff brilliance.

Eetu Luostarinen and Sam Reinhart provided support, chipping in goals and important offensive moves, including an empty-net capper to break up Florida’s dominance.

Momentum Shifts & Edmonton Shortcomings

Edmonton was forced to play catch-up on their own ice as Florida swiftly took charge with an early multi-goal lead, something they were unable to do in Game 4. Edmonton found it difficult to take advantage of opportunities, as Connor Brown regretted missed chances and the team’s early failure to match Florida’s effort.

Although Connor McDavid did score the first goal of the series, Florida quickly answered through Reinhart, regaining the lead in a matter of seconds. Additionally, Florida’s crushing penalty kill tactics caused the Oilers’ power play to flounder, failing all three attempts.

One Win Away from History

With this win, Texas-born Panthers edge within striking distance of repeating as Stanley Cup champions. Defenseman Reinhart summed up how the team has learned and adapted:

“Discipline, focus, and shutting down their stars—it all came together tonight.”

The Panthers have home-ice momentum and championship hopes as the series is now 3–2 and may end in Game 6 back in Sunrise, Florida. In the meanwhile, Edmonton needs to get back together fast to avoid elimination.

What to Expect Next

  • Game 6 Preview: Florida returns home, eyeing a decisive victory. If they win, they become just the third NHL team since the 1985 Oilers to win back-to-back Stanley Cups .
  • Potential Adjustments: Edmonton may turn to goalie Stuart Skinner after Calvin Pickard’s first loss, hoping a fresh presence delivers renewed stability .
  • Oilers Fighting Spirit: Though down, Edmonton has forced tough series already—stay tuned to see if they can reignite their game or if Florida closes the book on another chapter of their rise.

Final Take

Florida is on the verge of NHL immortality because of their stunning Game 5 performance, which was underpinned by clutch scoring, smart defense, and veteran poise. The Panthers will repeat as champs and solidify their reputation as one of the most tenacious and disciplined teams in recent memory if they win Game 6.