Panthers beat Oilers 5-2 in pivotal Game 5 of Stanley Cup final
The Florida Panthers are on the verge of making history once again as they are just one win away from defending their Stanley Cup title. In a thrilling Game 5 showdown against the Edmonton Oilers, the Panthers emerged victorious with a 5-2 win on Saturday.
The game kicked off with Brad Marchand setting the tone for the Panthers by scoring the opening goal halfway through the first period. Marchand showcased his skill by splitting Edmonton’s defense and firing a shot past goalie Calvin Pickard. Sam Bennett extended the lead to 2-0 late in the first period after capitalizing on a blocked shot that fell to him in the slot.
The second period saw the Panthers facing relentless pressure from the Oilers, but they managed to keep the scoreline in their favor by killing off two Edmonton power plays. However, the third period turned into a goal-scoring frenzy.
Marchand scored his second goal of the game early in the third period, followed by a quick response from Edmonton’s Connor McDavid. Sam Reinhart then restored the Panthers’ three-goal lead with a precise wrist shot. With three minutes left in the game, Corey Perry scored for the Oilers, but the Panthers sealed the deal with Eetu Luostarinen’s empty-net goal.
Bennett’s goal in Game 5 marked his 15th goal of the playoffs, leading all players in scoring, while Marchand continued his impressive performance with six goals in the final series alone. McDavid’s goal was his first of the series after a standout regular season.
Calvin Pickard got the start in goal for the Oilers in Game 5, replacing Stuart Skinner, who struggled in Game 4. The Panthers now hold a 3-2 series lead and have the opportunity to clinch the Stanley Cup at home in Florida in Game 6 on Tuesday.
The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the Stanley Cup Final, as the Panthers look to secure back-to-back championships and etch their names in hockey history. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable season.
