Oilers vs Panthers Today: Latest Updates and In-Depth Analysis – Stanley Cup Final Game 4
The 2025 Stanley Cup Final continues to deliver one of the most thrilling series in recent memory as the Edmonton Oilers vs Panthers clashed in Game 4 today at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. This game proved to be an unforgettable battle, filled with dramatic swings, powerful comebacks, and overtime brilliance.
First Period: Panthers’ Early Domination
The Oilers vs Panthers came out aggressively in the first period, quickly setting the tempo of the game. Their offensive power was on full display as they built an early 3–0 lead that stunned the Oilers.
- Matthew Tkachuk opened the scoring with a power-play goal at 11:40, assisted by Aleksander Barkov. Tkachuk’s sharp positioning allowed him to exploit the Oilers’ defensive gaps.
- Less than five minutes later, Tkachuk struck again with his second power-play goal, this time assisted by Sam Reinhart and Barkov.
- Anton Lundell further extended the Panthers’ lead at 19:18, capitalizing on a quick transition play with help from Carter Verhaeghe and Reinhart.
The Panthers’ precision and speed overwhelmed the Oilers, leaving Edmonton scrambling for answers.
Second Period: Oilers Launch a Remarkable Comeback
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch made a critical decision to replace starting goaltender Stuart Skinner with backup Calvin Pickard at the start of the second period.
This adjustment marked a turning point.
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins reignited the Oilers’ hopes with a power-play goal at 3:33, assisted by Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. Nugent-Hopkins’ goal energized the team and shifted the game’s momentum.
- Darnell Nurse reduced the deficit further by scoring on a rebound at 12:47, with assists from Mattias Ekholm and Adam Henrique.
- Just a few minutes later, Vasily Podkolzin tied the game at 15:05 with a well-executed backhand, assisted by Draisaitl and Nurse.
The Oilers’ resurgence was driven by aggressive forechecking, quick transitions, and improved defensive coverage, limiting the Panthers’ offensive opportunities.
Third Period: Lead Changes and Last-Second Drama
The Oilers’ momentum carried into the third period as Jake Walman gave Edmonton their first lead of the game at 13:36, with assists from Kasperi Kapanen and Nugent-Hopkins.
However, the Panthers were not ready to concede.
In a heart-stopping moment, Sam Reinhart scored with just 19.5 seconds remaining in regulation, tying the game at 4–4 and forcing overtime.
This sequence perfectly captured the high stakes and emotional intensity of the Stanley Cup Final.
Overtime: Draisaitl Seals the Victory
Overtime once again proved to be Leon Draisaitl’s domain. At 11:18 of overtime, Draisaitl netted his fourth overtime goal of the postseason—a new NHL record.
His game-winning backhand shot past Panthers’ goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky secured a critical victory for the Oilers and evened the series at 2–2.
Draisaitl’s clutch performances throughout the playoffs have solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable game-changers under pressure.
Key Performances
- Leon Draisaitl: The overtime hero with a record-setting fourth OT goal of the playoffs.
- Calvin Pickard: Delivered 22 crucial saves in relief, maintaining his perfect 7–0 playoff record.
- Matthew Tkachuk: Scored two power-play goals and was a dominant offensive force early in the game.
- Sam Reinhart: His last-second goal to force overtime was a defining moment.
Final Score: Edmonton Oilers 5, Florida Panthers 4 (OT)
The series is now tied at 2–2, setting the stage for an exciting Game 5 back in Edmonton. This thrilling contest has become one of the most competitive Stanley Cup Finals in recent years, with neither team willing to back down.
Quotes from Players and Coaches
Kris Knoblauch (Oilers Head Coach):
“Games like these test every part of your team. I’m proud of the resilience our players showed.”
Leon Draisaitl:
“We never quit. No matter how deep we are, we believe in each other, and that’s what matters.”
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins:
“It’s special to win a game like that, but now the focus shifts to defending our home ice.”
Series Outlook
With the series tied, the next game at Rogers Place in Edmonton promises to be critical. Both teams are showing playoff toughness and strategic adaptability.
The Oilers are aiming for their first Stanley Cup since 1990, while the Panthers seek to defend their championship and win consecutive titles—a feat last accomplished by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009.
Key Stats Summary
| Team | Goals | Shots on Goal | Power Play Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edmonton Oilers | 5 | 33 | 1 |
| Florida Panthers | 4 | 35 | 2 |
- Leon Draisaitl: 1 Goal, 2 Assists
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins: 1 Goal, 2 Assists
- Matthew Tkachuk: 2 Goals
Broader Impact and Audience Engagement
This series is not just attracting traditional hockey fans. Celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce attended Game 4, highlighting the crossover appeal of this year’s Finals. Social media platforms have seen trending hashtags like #OilersVsPanthers, #StanleyCupFinal, and #Game4Overtime gaining millions of engagements globally.
The NHL has successfully captured worldwide attention, with fans tuning in from North America, Europe, and beyond.
Where to Watch the Next Game
- Game 5: Saturday, June 15, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM ET
- Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton
- Broadcast: CBC, SN, TNT, ESPN+
- Live Streaming: NHL Official Website, Sportsnet, ESPN+
External Links for Further Reading
- Oilers rally in Game 4, beat Panthers in overtime – Reuters
- Stanley Cup Finals Game 4 recap – Washington Post
- Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce attend Game 4 – AP News
Final Thoughts
The Oilers vs Panthers showdown is living up to every expectation. With Game 4’s overtime thriller, the 2025 Stanley Cup Final has already become a memorable chapter in NHL history.
The resilience of the Edmonton Oilers, the early dominance of the Florida Panthers, and the clutch performances from stars like Leon Draisaitl and Matthew Tkachuk have captivated global audiences.
As the teams prepare for Game 5, the stakes are higher than ever. Both teams have shown they can win under pressure, and the championship now hinges on each game’s smallest moments.
This series is far from over, and hockey fans everywhere are eagerly watching.