The 2025 Stanley Cup Final is set to commence on Wednesday with Game 1, featuring a compelling rematch between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers. Last year, the Panthers clinched the championship in a hard-fought seven-game series against the Oilers. This season, Florida returns to the Final after defeating the Carolina Hurricanes in five games during the Eastern Conference Final. The Oilers also advanced in five games, overcoming the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final. The opening face-off for Game 1 is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at Rogers Place in Edmonton.
Odds Overview
Looking at the latest odds for the Oilers vs. Panthers Game 1, Edmonton is listed as a slight favorite on the moneyline at -122 (requiring a $122 wager to win $100). Florida enters as the underdog at +102 (a $100 wager wins $102). The total number of goals projected for the game (over/under) is set at 6. Edmonton also has a puck line of -1.5 (+191).
Recommended Bets
Based on analysis, here are some recommended wagers for Wednesday`s Game 1 (odds are subject to change):
- Panthers on the puck line +1.5 (-234)
- Over 6 total goals (-130)
Bet Justification: Panthers +1.5 Puck Line
The Florida Panthers have the advantage of an extra day of rest heading into this game. They have demonstrated strong road performance throughout the playoffs, winning their last five games away from home. Furthermore, Florida has won their last three encounters against the Oilers, including games from last season`s Final series, with each victory being decided by just one goal. This pattern of close games suggests Florida is well-positioned to cover the +1.5 goal spread in Game 1.
Bet Justification: Over 6 Goals
Recent playoff history for both teams indicates a potential for higher scores, with the Over hitting in two of their last three games each. Significantly, both regular-season matchups between the Oilers and Panthers this year also saw more than six goals scored in total. Goaltenders Sergei Bobrovsky and Stuart Skinner have playoff statistics reflecting an average of over two goals allowed per game. Edmonton`s offense has been prolific, averaging 4.06 goals per game across their 16 playoff contests, while Florida averages 3.88 goals per night. These offensive capabilities point towards Game 1 being a high-scoring contest.
