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The 2025 Stanley Cup Final is shaping up to be another unforgettable clash between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers. After a dramatic seven-game series last year, the intensity has only escalated in this year’s matchup. Following a dominant 6-1 win in Game 3, the Panthers have taken a 2-1 lead in the series, sending a clear message to the Oilers. But as we head into Game 4, both teams have shown they can turn the tide. 

 

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors determining who has the edge as the series progresses.

Skating Speed

The Oilers hold a clear advantage regarding raw skating speed. Connor McDavid is arguably the fastest player in the NHL, with a top speed of 23.92 mph. He also leads the league with 134 bursts of 20 mph or faster this postseason. His ability to break away from defenders and create scoring chances on the rush gives Edmonton a distinct edge in speed, especially in transition.

 

However, Florida has a firm counter with Aleksander Barkov, one of the league’s best two-way forwards. Their defensemen, such as Niko Mikkola and Gustav Forsling, are also extremely quick. The Panthers rank first in 20-plus mph bursts from defensemen, which allows them to defend against the Oilers’ speed. Barkov’s ability to neutralize McDavid’s explosive play also gives Florida a significant advantage in slowing down Edmonton’s offense.

 

In terms of betting, these dynamics are reflected in the NHL odds by FanDuel. The Panthers’ ability to slow down McDavid’s speed, particularly with Barkov on the ice, has them slightly favored. The Oilers, however, remain dangerous due to McDavid’s game-changing speed and the potential for quick transitions.

High-Danger Goals

Both teams excel at creating and converting high-danger chances, but Florida has capitalized more efficiently on these prime opportunities. The Panthers lead the NHL with 39 high-danger goals and boast a league-best 31.7% shooting percentage on high-danger chances. 

 

Sam Bennett, Anton Lundell, and Matthew Tkachuk have been key in converting these opportunities, making Florida a dangerous team when they get into prime shooting positions.

 

Edmonton, while trailing Florida in high-danger goals, leads the NHL with 146 shots on goal from high-danger areas. The Oilers, led by McDavid and Draisaitl, generate these chances in abundance, but their shooting percentage has not been as high as Florida’s. If Edmonton can start converting on more of these chances, the team can start to close the gap.

Goaltending

Goaltending has been a pivotal factor in this series, and the Panthers have the advantage here. Sergei Bobrovsky, a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, has been solid throughout the playoffs. Although his performance in the 2024 Cup Final showed some vulnerability, Bobrovsky has proven he can perform under pressure, especially in elimination games. He’s already made 116 saves in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, a testament to his ability to handle the heat.

 

On the other hand, Stuart Skinner’s performance in Game 3 was concerning, as he allowed five goals on 23 shots before being pulled. In this postseason, Skinner has had some intense moments, particularly with his high-danger save percentage, but he has shown inconsistency. Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch now faces a critical decision on whether to stick with Skinner or go with Calvin Pickard for Game 4.

Offensive Zone Time

Both teams rely heavily on their defensemen to create offensive opportunities, but the Panthers have a slight edge here. Florida’s Aaron Ekblad has been a standout in offensive zone time, consistently contributing to Florida’s ability to control possession in the opponent’s end. Ekblad has been pivotal in moving the puck and creating scoring chances, helping to maintain sustained pressure in the offensive zone.

 

Conversely, Edmonton’s Mattias Ekholm has been critical of their offensive push. Ekholm ranks third in the league among defensemen in even-strength offensive zone time percentage (47.5%) and has been a crucial part of the Oilers’ game plan. However, while Ekholm provides significant value, Florida’s Ekblad has been the more consistent force.

 

These nuances are key when evaluating team tendencies and projecting outcomes. If you’re trying to get an edge on your next bet, Expert NHL Game Predictions break down metrics like offensive zone time to help forecast momentum and puck control — two stats that often dictate which way a series tilts.

Secondary Scoring at 5-on-5

When it comes to secondary scoring, Florida has a clear advantage. The Panthers’ depth has been one of their greatest assets, with all nine top forwards contributing at 0.70 points per game or better. 

 

Players like Sam Bennett, who leads the NHL in goals this postseason, provide the depth that makes it difficult for opponents to shut down Florida’s offense. Adding Evan Rodrigues to the top line has further strengthened their forward depth.

 

In contrast, the Oilers rely heavily on their top two stars—Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. While secondary scoring has improved in this postseason, with contributions from players like Corey Perry and Zach Hyman (before his injury), Edmonton’s depth is still not as reliable as Florida’s. If McDavid and Draisaitl aren’t clicking, the Oilers struggle to generate consistent offense from their other lines.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Panthers are riding high on momentum, but the Oilers have the firepower and experience to bounce back. Florida’s physical play, consistent depth scoring, and reliable goaltending have given them the upper hand. However, Edmonton’s star power and potential for quick comebacks make them a dangerous team. If the Oilers can clean up their discipline, get better goaltending, and find their secondary scoring, they have a chance to even the series.

 

This series is far from over, and Game 4 will be crucial for both teams in shaping the rest of the Final. Expect another intense battle in what is sure to be a memorable Stanley Cup Final.

 

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