Florida Panthers vs. Edmonton Oilers: Stanley Cup Picks and Predictions

The 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Final is finally here and it is a repeat of the 2024 showpiece, as the reigning champions the Florida Panthers take on the Edmonton Oilers.

Florida are appearing in the finals for the third year in a row, having lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023 before making amends with last year's 4-3 series win over Edmonton.

The Oilers clearly have unfinished business to do after falling short last year and they will be hoping for a different outcome this time, as they aim to win their first Stanley Cup since 1990 and become the first Canadian team to lift the trophy since 1993.

Florida Panthers vs. Edmonton Oilers series betting picks and predictions

Oilers to win series (-130)

Edmonton are still feeling an emotion that Florida felt after losing in the 2023 Stanley Cup Finals, and what the Panthers have proven is that those emotions can take a team a long way.

The Oilers is led by two of the most dominant players in NHL history in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and while Florida is strong defensively, no team can truly stop this pair, especially as they are both playing with an unmatched hunger for their first Stanley Cup.

Edmonton have shown to be extremely deep, with a majority of players young and old making major contributions. This has even included waiver pickups. Everyone is pulling the rope.

They are now in their first full series with elite defenseman Matias Ekholm, who missed the first 15 games due to injury, adding to a strong group. In net, Stuart Skinner’s early struggles in the playoffs have transformed into a complete brick wall.

Edmonton has played at least two teams who would present no shock if they won the Stanley Cup, and not only did the Oilers win, but they won handily. There is a different feel behind this group, and they can get revenge by taking home the Stanley Cup.

Oilers 2-1 correct score after Game 3 (+135)

No matter what the scenario is after three games, it would be a huge surprise if each team doesn’t secure at least one win. They are both equally strong and have proven themselves in more ways than one this season, which also includes winning big games on the road.

If Edmonton jumps out to the hot start they are hoping for and wins both home games, this elite Panthers team will have no choice but to slam their foot on the gas in an ultimate effort at home in Game 3.

If Florida happens to steal a win in Edmonton whether it be Game 1 or Game 2, the Oilers will waste no time in returning the favor quickly, and light an even bigger fire under them when the series enters Florida territory.

It seems clear we are going to be in a very tight and deep series, so it should come to no surprise if we see lots of back and forth action. With home ice advantage to kick this off, the Oilers should be able to snag two wins within the first three games.

Read the latest Stanley Cup Final series odds and markets from bet365 on site.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins most points in the series (+1800)

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has always been a consistent player for Edmonton, ever since joining the team as the first overall draft pick in 2011. However, he has taken another step in the past couple of years, no more during this regular season and playoffs.

In nine less games, Nugent-Hopkins is just two goals, two assists, and four points from his previous career highs within the playoffs.

Before Game 5 against Dallas, Nugent-Hopkins was on a four-game run that saw him score two goals and nab nine points. He has been incredible down the run.

Florida is an elite team all around, and while no team or player can completely stop the likes of McDavid and Draisaitl, you can bet there will be a heavy attack on them both. This could open up Nugent-Hopkins throughout the series.

With forward Zach Hyman out due to injury, Nugent-Hopkins will be leaned on even heavier than before, and will need to perform at a high standard to help this team.

Arguably the most-deserving of the Edmonton Oilers, Nugent-Hopkins has a great chance to win his first Stanley Cup, while riding his hot hand and leading the team in points.

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Odds displayed within this article were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change.