At 03:00 GMT, the 3rd game of the 2023-2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs Finals series will commence. Hockey enthusiasts are in for a treat with the showdown between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers.
The Florida Panthers participated in 82 official games during the 2023-2024 NHL regular season. The Panthers secured 110 points from these 82 games, which earned them 3rd place in the Eastern Conference standings. They trailed only the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers by the end of the regular season. Throughout the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Panthers faced only five losses while overcoming formidable opponents from Tampa Bay, Boston, and New York. In the final series, the Florida Panthers face off against the Edmonton Oilers, and thus far, things are going according to plan.
The Florida Panthers currently lead the series 2-0. In both games, the Panthers displayed remarkable stability, thriving on their roster depth to outplay the Edmonton Oilers. Following the first game, the Oilers tried to neutralise the Panthers’ key players, but this didn’t impact the quality of their play. Players from Eetu Luostarinen's line, particularly in synergy with Vladimir Tarasenko, have stepped up. Sergei Bobrovsky also continues to prove his worth, likely securing the season's best title.
The Edmonton Oilers played 82 official games in the 2023-2024 NHL regular season, accumulating 104 points, which placed them 5th in the Western Conference standings. Considering they reached the final series, the 2023-2024 season has been a successful one for the Oilers. During the tournament stretch, the Edmonton Oilers had to overcome several giants and favourites who posed significant challenges. In the Stanley Cup semi-finals, the Oilers overpowered the Dallas Stars.
However, in the finals, things are not going as well for the Edmonton Oilers, who currently trail 0-2 in the series. Despite displaying quality hockey in the first two games, the results have been less than favourable. Opponents have efficiently neutralised the Oilers' leader, Connor McDavid, and the rest of the team hasn't fully compensated. Playing at home could be easier, but the Oilers need to add creativity to their offence and shoot towards the corners instead of directly at Sergei Bobrovsky.
In their last 5 meetings, the Florida Panthers hold the upper hand against the Edmonton Oilers, winning 4 consecutive matches. In the regular season, the Panthers triumphed 5-1.
The total for the Florida Panthers will be over 2 goals. Historically, the Panthers have never scored less in games against the Edmonton Oilers.
The Florida Panthers are expected to win in regulation time. The visitors from Florida have demonstrated their superiority in the first two games, and a 3-0 victory has solidified their status as the favourites in this matchup.
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