The Edmonton Oilers are having a lot of flashing memories in Florida as they clock in heading to Game 3 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Finals. After all, it is where they had big moments in hopes of making history of making an 0-3 comeback. However, it is also the place where they saw the opposing team take hold of the Stanley Cup in Game 7 last year. Now they hope not to repeat those same memories as they seek to get even in this second incarnation of a heavyweight showdown.
The last time they played in Florida since that defeat in Game 7? A 4-3 loss in the season last February 27. The scene at the Amerant Bank Arena is certainly nondescript for most, but for the Oilers, it seems to be quite a sinking memory that they are back here again. But it is another year, another chance to prove their worth.
It is the same thing, but a different day, and that is something that the final two teams in the playoffs are looking forward to as they seek to bring history on their respective sides. Twelve months later, the Stanley Cup Final has seen the same team return on the big stage, and they have a lot of new tricks up their sleeves heading into Game 3.
A Different Approach
Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse knows that the stakes are somewhat bigger in this second matchup of the Stanley Cup Final against the Panthers. For one, it is a brewing rivalry, and it is bringing a lot of hype on the NHL landscape. But most of all, is is also highlighting how the long struggle of Edmonton to keep a massive roster that is capable of winning a championship.
Edmonton has already proven that it can reach the big stage after a long time of development on its talents, and now it has to prove that a championship is coming in hot. However, they would need to blow past the Panthers if they are going to do that.
“It’s a different, different feeling,” Nurse said of the feels heading into Game 3. “It was very emotional for us. Obviously, a lot of memories come flying back. You get those whenever you return to a place you’ve played before in the playoffs, but obviously losing a Game 7 here is always going to stick with you.”
The Oilers had their triumphs in this arena last year as well, and it is safe to say that the current series is somewhat unpredictable with its swing compared to last year’s showdown. Some things may be different, after all, such as the hotel they’re staying at right now.
Ready for Action
The Panthers definitely have some strong, happy memories at this end of the series. Of course, no matter how much time passes, it is always going to be a memorable scene for the defending champions, and it is safe to say that there’s a lot to expect from them as they gather to defend home ground.
After stealing one on the road, the focus is now to steer the ship for the Panthers, with Matthew Tkachuk knowing that whoever takes Game 3 will likely control the series unless a tie ends up happening before Game 5.
At this point, it is going to be quite a blast to watch this upcoming showdown, and both teams are keen to move past the memories of the previous year and focus on the big thing at hand.
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