How can the Panthers repeat this result against the Oilers?
It starts with staying physical. The Panthers average 47 hits per game, more than any other team in the entire postseason, where the Oilers have recorded an average of 38 hits. Edmonton has also lost the NHL's league leader in hits, Zach Hyman, so that all but guarantees Florida will be playing the body.
Recording hits is not just a show of intensity, but in Florida's case, it also has an integral part in their possession game. It forces turnovers and creates more space for the Panthers to move the puck up ice.
Another key: continue to find the back of the net at even strength. Florida has scored 47 of its 66 goals at five-on-five, and this is a big sign pointing to victory. Since 2021, only five teams have scored at least 47 such goals, and three of those teams went on to win the Stanley Cup: the Lightning in 2021, Avalanche in 2022, and Golden Knights in 2023.
When the Panthers have the lead, they'll need to lock down and be smart. The Oilers are one of the most resilient teams when it comes to playing from behind. Edmonton has six comeback wins this postseason, scoring three late game-tying goals with the goalie pulled along the way. If Florida can jump out to a hot start,
Finally, relying on scoring depth will be crucial. The Oilers offer up a far bigger challenge than the Hurricanes did. It will be impossible to keep Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl irrelevant, like Florida did with Carolina's superstars. But beyond those two, Edmonton also has a deep roster where every skater contributes on a nightly basis.
If Florida sticks to its winning formula, a back-to-back championship could very well be in the cards.