The Edmonton Oilers are back in the Stanley Cup Final, and they have revenge on their minds.
A year after narrowly losing Game 7 to the Florida Panthers in a 2-1 heartbreaker, the Oilers are set for a rematch with the defending champions.
The 2025 Stanley Cup Final begins Wednesday night at Rogers Place in Edmonton, reigniting a rivalry that was forged in the heat of last year’s battle.
Oilers vs Panthers: A Stanley Cup Rematch Fueled by History
NHL.com senior writer Amalie Benjamin believes this year’s story might end differently for Edmonton.
“I just think revenge will carry the Oilers past,” she wrote in her Stanley Cup predictions, noting their hunger and resolve after last year’s crushing defeat. Edmonton clawed back from a 3-0 series deficit to force Game 7, only to fall short by a single goal.
The emotional fallout of that loss wasn’t forgotten. Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk reportedly told Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner during last year’s handshake line, “We’ll see you in the Finals next year, Stu. You guys are too good.”
Now, that prediction has come true.
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Both teams have evolved since last June. They’ve added depth, refined their systems, and carried the weight of expectations all season long.
According to Tkachuk, these two teams were always destined to meet again.
“We’re the two best teams in the league, and here we are again,” he said via NHL.com.
There’s mutual respect. There’s history. And there’s a title on the line. Now, it’s up to Edmonton to decide if last year’s heartbreak becomes this year’s redemption.
Oilers Look Stronger, Meaner in Quest for Cup
Much has changed for the Oilers since last June. While stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl remain the backbone of the team, Edmonton has added experience and toughness to its roster. Players like Trent Frederic, Jeff Skinner, and John Klingberg have brought new energy and a more physical edge.
“Both teams are deeper this year,” Florida coach Paul Maurice said. “So, that’s a change for them, for us. I think they are further along in their defensive structure, and we’re actually a little further along in our offensive structure.”
On the other side, the Panthers remain a powerhouse. They’ve reached their third straight Stanley Cup Final, while the addition of players like Brad Marchand and Seth Jones has bolstered their already-elite core. Florida’s speed and tenacity have carried the reigning champs through the postseason once again.
🏆 Stanley Cup Final Rematches (1995–2024)
1. Edmonton Oilers vs. Florida Panthers2024: Florida won in 5 games
2025: Rematch (upcoming)2. Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Detroit Red Wings
2008: Detroit won in 6
2009: Pittsburgh won in 7Only back-to-back Final rematch in modern era
— betPARX (@betPARX) June 1, 2025
But this isn’t just another series. It’s the first Stanley Cup Final rematch in over a decade, and only the fourth since 1968. The stakes are sky-high, and both teams know what it takes to get here.
Despite losing Zach Hyman to an upper-body injury in the Western Conference Final, the Oilers are confident. They’ve been through the emotional rollercoaster of a deep playoff run and are determined not to fall short again.
Their path to redemption starts now. With more grit, deeper lines, and the scars of last year still fresh, they look ready to finish what they started.
