After resting and gearing up for at least five days, the Edmonton Oilers and the reigning champion Florida Panthers are set to face off in Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place in Edmonton. The Oilers have been off since last Thursday’s victory over the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Finals, whereas the Panthers last played the day before after beating the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Finals. Florida is aiming to become just the third NHL team to secure back-to-back championships since 2005-2006, with only forward AJ Greer (lower body injury) doubtful for the series opener. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s Zach Hyman (upper body injury) has been ruled out for the season following a first-period injury in the conference final’s fourth game.
This matchup marks the 11th time in NHL history that the same teams have met in consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, the first since the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins faced off in 2008-2009. Despite the Oilers losing seven games last year, they enter as slight favorites at -120 on DraftKings Sportsbook and are -130 favorites to win their first championship since 1990, with Game 1 starting at 8 p.m. Below, we share expert picks and top bets from this game along with other notable sports events.
Shifting focus, here’s a look at key MLB matchups for Wednesday, including a Dodgers vs. Mets game where the Dodgers overcame a 4-3 extra-innings loss in Game 1 to win 6-5 in Game 2. Clayton Kershaw is set to pitch for the Dodgers tonight, seeking revenge after a recent rough outing against the Mets. Additionally, the Yankees and Guardians renew their rivalry in another 2024 League Championship Series rematch, with the Yankees winning the opener 3-2. Clark Schmidt will pitch for New York aiming for redemption against Cleveland’s Louis Ortiz.
In NHL news, the Oilers and Panthers showdown at 8 p.m. on TNT is highlighted by expert picks favoring the Panthers at +104 and an expectation for over 6 total goals, reflecting Florida’s hot scoring streak where they have netted five or more goals in five of their last six playoff games. Edmonton’s Conor McDavid, the postseason scoring leader, is a key player to watch as the Oilers, who have a strong home record of 6-1 in the playoffs, face the Panthers who are 8-2 on the road.
Finally, looking ahead to the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder, Pascal Siakam is a noteworthy MVP pick at +1600. The Thunder are heavy favorites to win the title, but experts suggest potential value in underdog props like Alex Caruso’s points, assists, and rebounds total.
Fan Take: This epic Stanley Cup Final rematch between Edmonton and Florida is a thrilling chapter for hockey fans, showcasing elite talent and historic rivalry that could shape the tone of the NHL’s competitive future. With star players like McDavid and strong teams pushing for glory, this series promises intense action and memorable moments for the sport’s community.
