Panthers to Start Stanley Cup Final in Edmonton

The Florida Panthers are set for a rematch against the Edmonton Oilers in the Stanley Cup Final and will begin the series on the road in Edmonton. Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, recently awarded both the Selke and King Clancy trophies, is credited with fostering a winning culture and providing unselfish leadership that motivates his teammates. The team features a blend of experienced champions and driven newcomers, a dynamic seen as key to their pursuit of back-to-back Stanley Cups. Barkov and the Panthers remain confident in their preparation and resilience, valuing the mix of players with and without prior Cup experience. Despite calls for Oilers star Connor McDavid to win his first championship, analysts and players consider Florida's depth, cohesion, and leadership as reasons they are favored. The Panthers' strong core and renewed intensity are considered essential to their ongoing success.