Marchand's Two Goals Lift Panthers in Game 5

Brad Marchand, age 37, scored two goals in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final to lead the Florida Panthers to a 5-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers, putting them one victory away from a second straight title. Marchand now has 10 playoff goals, with six in the finals, becoming the first player since 1988 to reach that mark in a Cup Final and tying Mario Lemieux for scoring five or more goals in multiple finals over the last 50 years. Acquired from the Boston Bruins at the trade deadline, Marchand’s veteran leadership and timely scoring have been crucial, especially after Florida’s rebound from a Game 4 collapse. The Panthers’ defense and penalty kill effectively shut down Edmonton’s power play and top scorers. Florida leads the series 3-2 and can clinch the Stanley Cup at home in Game 6. Marchand, who becomes a free agent after this season, continues to exceed expectations with his postseason performance.