The Edmonton Oilers pulled off a dramatic comeback in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, rallying from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Florida Panthers 4-3 in overtime. Leon Draisaitl delivered the game-winner with just 31 seconds left in the extra period, capping off a thrilling night in Edmonton and giving the Oilers a 1–0 lead in the series.
Draisaitl scored twice, including the opening goal early in the first period and the decisive strike on a power play in overtime. Florida responded with three unanswered goals—two from Sam Bennett and one from Brad Marchand—to take a 3-1 lead. But Edmonton clawed back with third-period goals from Viktor Arvidsson and Mattias Ekholm, with Connor McDavid assisting on the tying play. Goaltender Stuart Skinner turned away 29 shots to help keep the Oilers in contention.
The win not only gives Edmonton early control in the best-of-seven series but also serves as a redemption moment after last year’s Finals setback. Draisaitl’s overtime goal tied an NHL record for most in a single postseason and further cemented his status as a playoff performer. McDavid, who now leads the playoffs in assists, continues to be a critical force in the Oilers’ deep run.
Game 2 is set for Friday night in Edmonton, where the Oilers will look to extend their series lead before heading to Florida. The Panthers, meanwhile, will aim to regroup quickly and prevent the momentum from fully shifting in Edmonton’s favor.
