Leon Draisait netted the game-winning goal on a power play with just 31 seconds left in overtime, lifting the Oilers …read more.
The Edmonton Oilers opened the Stanley Cup Final in thrilling fashion, edging the Florida Panthers 4-3 in overtime to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Leon Draisaitl played the hero, scoring the game-winning goal on a power play with just 31 seconds left in the extra frame.
The Panthers and Oilers delivered a fast-paced and physical contest, trading goals throughout regulation. Florida opened the scoring in the first period, but Edmonton quickly responded, with Zach Hyman and Evan Bouchard finding the net to give the Oilers a 2-1 lead. The Panthers tied it up in the second period, and both teams scored again in the third, setting the stage for a dramatic overtime.
A late penalty against Florida gave Edmonton a crucial man advantage in the extra period. With time winding down, Draisaitl capitalized, taking a feed from Connor McDavid and firing a one-timer past Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky to seal the win. The goal sent the home crowd at Rogers Place into a frenzy and gave the Oilers an early edge in their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2006.
“It’s a big win, but it’s only one,” Draisaitl said after the game. “We know they’re a tough team and we have to be ready for Game 2.”
Connor McDavid added three assists, continuing his dominant postseason run, while Stuart Skinner made 35 saves for Edmonton. On the other side, Bobrovsky stopped 37 shots in a strong effort for Florida.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Monday night in Edmonton. With the Oilers now holding the momentum, all eyes will be on whether the Panthers can bounce back and even the series before it shifts to Florida.
