Panthers vs Oilers Game 4

Florida Looks to Push Oilers to the Brink with Another Home Win

Game 3 Recap

The Florida Panthers dominated Game 3 from start to finish, cruising to a 6–1 win to take a 2–1 series lead in the Stanley Cup Final. Brad Marchand opened the scoring less than a minute in, and the Panthers never looked back outplaying the Oilers in all three zones while controlling the pace, special teams, and emotion of the game.

While both teams took four penalties in the first period, the wheels completely fell off for Edmonton as frustration boiled over. The Oilers racked up a staggering 85 penalty minutes, including a 10:29 third-period meltdown that featured multiple misconducts, fighting majors, and minors. With the score already 5–1, tempers flared, and Edmonton responded by taking six separate penalties in under a minute, including fights involving Darnell Nurse and Jonah Gadjovich, a cross-check from Corey Perry, and roughing calls up and down the lineup.

Florida stayed composed and capitalized, scoring three power-play goals on 11 opportunities, while Sergei Bobrovsky turned in a steady performance, stopping 32 of 33 shots (.970 SV%). On the other side, Stuart Skinner allowed 5 goals on 23 shots before being pulled but he’s been confirmed as the Game 4 starter, with Edmonton hoping for a bounce-back effort in what’s become a must-win spot.

Game 4 Preview

Florida has all the momentum heading into Game 4 and will look to take a commanding 3–1 series lead on home ice, where they’ve been excellent all postseason. The Panthers have outscored the Oilers 14–9 through three games and are controlling the series with structure, depth, and discipline.

The first two games were tight, but in Game 3, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the Oilers’ top scorers were stuck playing catch-up while the team spent most of the night in the penalty box instead of generating offense. Florida's forecheck and physicality frustrated Edmonton into mistake after mistake and when emotions boiled over, the Panthers stayed composed.

With the Oilers playing angry instead of smart, and Skinner’s confidence clearly shaken, this matchup now tilts heavily in Florida’s favor. Their role players are stepping up, the forecheck is wearing down Edmonton’s defense, and the Panthers are winning the physical battle without losing their cool.

Best Bet: Florida Panthers ML -150

Florida has the better goaltender, the steadier bench, and total control of special teams. With Edmonton unraveling and the Panthers continuing to impose their style, this is another great spot to back the home team.