Edmonton Oilers Win Game 1 in Overtime Thriller: 2025 Stanley Cup Final Kicks Off with a Bang
In a gripping start to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers pulled off a dramatic 4-3 overtime win against the Florida Panthers in Game 1. The opening match was held at Rogers Place in Edmonton. Fans were treated to a rollercoaster of emotion and elite-level hockey.
Early Action and Comeback Drama
Leon Draisaitl wasted no time, scoring just 66 seconds into the first period to give the Oilers an early lead. But the Panthers quickly responded. Sam Bennett netted two goals and Brad Marchand added another to put Florida up 3-1 in the second period.
Edmonton refused to back down. Viktor Arvidsson and Mattias Ekholm found the back of the net, leveling the game 3-3. They sent the crowd into a frenzy. The intensity only grew as the game went into overtime.
In the final minute of overtime, Draisaitl delivered again, scoring the game-winner on a power play. It was his ninth goal of the postseason and his third game-winning goal in overtime. He tied the record for most overtime goals in a single postseason.
Emotional Ice and Community Spirit
In a heartwarming touch, the Oilers honored their roots by incorporating ice from the hometown rinks of each player into the surface at Rogers Place. This “This Is Our Ice” initiative serves as a tribute to the communities that shaped the players’ careers. Additionally, it highlights the deep bond between the team and its fans.
What’s Next in the Series
With this win, the Oilers now lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. Game 2 will also take place in Edmonton, before the series moves to Florida for Games 3 and 4. Each game promises high-stakes action as both teams battle for the most prestigious trophy in hockey.
Prize and Glory
The winning team will not only lift the historic Stanley Cup but also receive a playoff prize pool share worth over $6.5 million. This amount is typically split among players. Each member potentially earns over $240,000, depending on the team’s internal distribution.
This year’s Stanley Cup Final is more than just a championship—it’s a showdown between a team chasing redemption and a squad aiming to break a decades-long drought for Canadian hockey fans. With stars like Draisaitl, McDavid, Bennett, and Tkachuk in the spotlight, the excitement is only just beginning.
