Oilers Take Stanley Cup Final Lead with Draisaitl Overtime Goal

The 2025 Stanley Cup Final opened with a thrilling Game 1, where the Edmonton Oilers staged a dramatic comeback from a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Florida Panthers 4-3 in overtime, with Leon Draisaitl scoring the game-winning goal. Draisaitl's performance was pivotal, as he scored twice, including the overtime winner, marking his first career goal in a Final and tying the record for most overtime goals in a single playoff run. The Oilers' resilience was highlighted by a strong third period, led by contributions from Mattias Ekholm and Connor McDavid, and a significant power-play conversion following a Panthers' mistake in the closing minutes. Compared to last year’s Finals, Draisaitl was notably healthier and more effective, which coach Kris Knoblauch and teammates credited as a key factor in the Oilers’ success. The Panthers, who had been undefeated in playoff games when leading after the first or second period under coach Paul Maurice, suffered their first such loss, shaking their previously dominant playoff aura. This victory gives Edmonton a 1-0 series lead as the teams prepare for Game 2 back at Rogers Place.