Edmonton and Florida Head into Game 5 Tied as Stanley Cup Drama Intensifies
The stakes are higher than ever as the Edmonton Oilers prepare to host the Florida Panthers in Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. With the series locked at 2-2, Saturday’s matchup at Rogers Place promises to be a turning point in a fierce and unpredictable battle for hockey’s greatest prize.
Game time is set for 8 p.m. ET, with Edmonton listed as a narrow -111 favorite and Florida close behind at -109, according to the latest odds. The over/under is 6.5 goals, highlighting expectations of another high-scoring affair.
Table of Contents
Series Recap: A Tug-of-War for Momentum
Florida took a commanding tone in Game 3 with a 6-1 victory, powered by strong goaltending from Sergei Bobrovsky and a well-rounded scoring attack. However, Edmonton responded in dramatic fashion in Game 4, rallying from a 3-0 deficit to win 5-4 in overtime on a game-winning goal by Leon Draisaitl.
That Game 4 comeback was the latest twist in a series that has featured shifting momentum and standout performances from both sides.
Panthers Road Strength and Goaltending Give Them the Edge
Florida Thrives on the Road
The Panthers enter Game 5 with a stellar 9-3 road record in the 2025 postseason. Their ability to stay composed in hostile environments could prove pivotal in a series where home-ice advantage is being tested.
Depth and Consistency from Florida’s Offense
Florida has seen 11 different players record two or more points in the series, showcasing depth and offensive balance across all four lines. By contrast, Edmonton relies heavily on its top stars, with only two Oilers players achieving that mark.
Bobrovsky Anchors Florida’s Defense
Bobrovsky remains a key factor, having made 30-plus saves in every game of the series so far. He carries a solid 2.27 goals-against average, giving Florida an edge in net over Edmonton’s Stuart Skinner, who was pulled in both Games 3 and 4.
Why Edmonton Still Has Hope: Home Ice and Superstar Surge
Oilers Shine at Rogers Place
Edmonton boasts a 7-2 home record in the playoffs, and their home-ice advantage has been crucial throughout their 2025 campaign. The loud crowd at Rogers Place has served as a sixth skater for a team that thrives off energy.
McDavid and Draisaitl: Dynamic Duo
Between Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers have a combined 33 points in just nine home playoff games this year. Their explosive playmaking and leadership have been essential in keeping Edmonton alive in tight situations.
Comeback Confidence
Their Game 4 rally from three goals down may have re-energized the locker room. While momentum is fleeting in playoff hockey, such a statement win cannot be ignored when evaluating the emotional and mental edge going into Game 5.
Expert Predictions and Betting Insights
According to Matt Severance, SportsLine’s top NHL expert with a 160-86-9 record in his last 255 NHL picks, Game 5 could go over the 6.5 total. Severance also hints at a critical X-factor that makes one team the better bet — though he hasn’t publicly revealed which side.
With such tight odds and unpredictable outcomes, bettors and fans alike are watching this series unfold with anticipation.
Where to Watch and Stream
- Puck Drop: Saturday at 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton
- Streaming: Available on Fubo
- Betting Platforms: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM (promotions available for new users)
Conclusion: Game 5 Could Decide More Than Just Momentum
With both teams tied at two wins apiece, Game 5 may set the course for the Stanley Cup’s final destination. Will the Panthers’ depth and road prowess lead them to another away win? Or will the Oilers capitalize on home ice and ride the wave of McDavid and Draisaitl?
The answer comes Saturday night in Edmonton — where legends are made and history will be written.
