The Florida Panthers find themselves on the brink of history as they have the opportunity to claim their first-ever Stanley Cup on home ice. Fans will be eagerly watching as Game 7 of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Final takes place at 8 p.m. ET at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. This moment marks a significant potential milestone for the Panthers, who have previously lost their first two Stanley Cup Final series in franchise history.
Throughout an impressive postseason run, the Panthers have compiled a robust record of 15-8. Their journey has been nothing short of dramatic, winning the first three games of the series only to lose the next three, setting the stage for a tension-filled Game 7. With betting odds favoring them by a slim margin at -111, the Panthers are narrowly preferred to edge out the Edmonton Oilers, with the over/under for total goals set at 5.5.
Carter Verhaeghe and Anton Lundell Leading the Charge
Carter Verhaeghe has been instrumental in Florida's postseason success. In 23 games, he has notched 10 goals and 9 assists. His regular season stats were equally impressive, tallying 34 goals and 38 assists. Another crucial contributor, Anton Lundell, has also provided a significant boost to the Panthers' offensive efforts. Lundell has been productive in this series with four assists, complementing his postseason total of three goals and 13 assists. During the regular season, Lundell recorded 13 goals and 22 assists in 78 games. These performances highlight the depth and talent in Florida's arsenal as they head into the decisive game.
The Oilers' Quest for a Sixth Stanley Cup
The Edmonton Oilers, aiming to capture their sixth Stanley Cup championship, are not to be underestimated. The franchise's illustrious history features numerous legendary successes, and they’ll look to add another chapter to their storied legacy. The Oilers are narrowly priced at -109, underscoring how close this matchup is predicted to be.
A key factor in Edmonton's postseason has been Connor McDavid, who has amassed a staggering 42 points by way of eight goals and 34 assists. McDavid's play has been clutch, most notably in Game 5, where he contributed with two goals and two assists. His performances in Game 4 and Game 6, which included a goal and multiple assists, have made him a constant threat on the ice.
Leon Draisaitl's Impact
Leon Draisaitl has also been a pillar for the Oilers, contributing significantly throughout the playoffs. Draisaitl has recorded 10 goals and 21 assists in the postseason. His standout moments include scoring two goals and making two assists in the Western Conference Finals. Additionally, Draisaitl shined in the second round against Vancouver with three goals and nine assists. During the regular season, he accumulated an impressive 106 points, including 41 goals and 65 assists in 81 games.
The Oilers have displayed strategic resilience throughout their playoff run. The game total has gone under in 28 of Edmonton's last 43 away games and 55 of their last 90 games, reflecting a disciplined defensive approach that they will likely employ in this decisive encounter.
As Game 7 approaches, the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a hard-fought series. The Panthers, riding the wave of a possible historic achievement, will need to harness the energy of their home crowd and the performance of key players to overcome the seasoned Oilers. Conversely, Edmonton's wealth of experience and star power, led by McDavid and Draisaitl, aims to thwart Florida's dreams and add to their own legacy.
Only one thing is certain: this showdown will be remembered as an epic chapter in NHL history.