What Happened
In Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final on June 12, 2025, the Edmonton Oilers staged a remarkable comeback against the Florida Panthers, winning 5-4 in overtime. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Panthers initially taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the first period. However, the Oilers responded with a strong performance, scoring four unanswered goals to take a 4-3 lead late in the third period. The Panthers managed to tie the game with just 19.5 seconds remaining in regulation, forcing the match into overtime. Leon Draisaitl scored the game-winning goal at 11:18 of the overtime period, allowing the Oilers to tie the series at 2-2.
The game was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, with both teams showcasing their offensive capabilities. The Panthers dominated early, with Matthew Tkachuk scoring two goals in the first period, followed by Anton Lundell’s goal that extended their lead to 3-0. The Oilers, however, made a pivotal goalie change, replacing Stuart Skinner with Calvin Pickard after the first period. This switch proved beneficial, as Pickard stopped 22 of 23 shots faced during the remainder of the game. The Oilers’ resilience and ability to adapt were key factors in their comeback victory.
Key Details
- Final Score: Oilers 5, Panthers 4 (OT)
- Game Date: June 12, 2025
- Series Status: Tied 2-2
- Key Players:
- Leon Draisaitl (Oilers) - Scored the game-winning goal and recorded two assists.
- Calvin Pickard (Oilers) - Stopped 22 of 23 shots after replacing Stuart Skinner.
- Matthew Tkachuk (Panthers) - Scored two goals in the first period.
- Historical Context: The Oilers became the first team in Stanley Cup Final history to overcome a three-goal deficit and win on the road since the Montreal Canadiens in 1919. Prior to this game, teams leading by three goals at the end of the first period had a 37-0 record in Stanley Cup Finals.
Multiple Perspectives
The game drew varied reactions from analysts and fans alike. Some praised the Oilers for their tenacity and ability to bounce back from a dire situation, highlighting Draisaitl’s performance as a testament to his skill and leadership. According to CBS Sports, Draisaitl’s fourth overtime game-winner of the playoffs set a new NHL record, underscoring his clutch performance in high-pressure situations.
Conversely, some commentators pointed to the Panthers’ inability to maintain their early lead as a critical misstep. The late-game collapse, especially allowing a goal in the final seconds of regulation, raised questions about their defensive strategies and mental resilience. NHL.com noted that the Panthers had a chance to secure a commanding series lead but instead faced a setback that could impact their momentum heading into Game 5.
Context & Background
The Stanley Cup Final is the culmination of the NHL playoffs, where the two conference champions compete for the championship. The 2025 series features the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers, both of whom have demonstrated strong performances throughout the playoffs. The Oilers entered Game 4 after a disappointing 6-1 loss in Game 3, which included a significant brawl that saw multiple players ejected. This backdrop of physicality and emotional intensity added to the stakes of Game 4, making the Oilers’ comeback even more significant.
Historically, the Stanley Cup Final has been known for dramatic comebacks and intense competition. The Oilers’ victory in Game 4 not only tied the series but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey, where momentum can shift rapidly.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As the series heads back to Edmonton for Game 5, several uncertainties remain. The effectiveness of the Oilers’ goalie rotation will be a focal point, as coach Kris Knoblauch must decide whether to stick with Pickard or return to Skinner. Additionally, the psychological impact of the late-game collapse on the Panthers will be crucial in determining their performance in the next game.
Further, the health and availability of key players on both teams could influence the outcome of the remaining games in the series. As the playoffs progress, teams often face injuries that can alter their strategies and lineups.
Overall, the outcome of Game 5 will be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of the series, and both teams will be looking to capitalize on the lessons learned from Game 4.
