**Oilers Triumph in Game 1 with Dramatic OT Win, Eye Stanley Cup Redemption**

In an electrifying start to the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers clinched a 4-3 overtime victory against the Florida Panthers, marking their return to the championship series after last year's heartbreaking defeat.

The scene at Rogers Place was nothing short of spectacular, with the Stanley Cup dazzling under the spotlights and the crowd passionately chanting, "WE WANT THE CUP!" Demonstrating their seasoned composure, the Oilers focused on the game ahead rather than the trophy they narrowly missed out on last year.

Reflecting on last year's loss, Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner noted the difference in the team's mindset. "When I saw the Cup on the ice last year, I was kind of looking at it with googly eyes. This year, seeing it, I was here last year. I saw it already," Skinner remarked, underlining the Oilers' evolved approach.

The team’s experience from last year was evident as they fought back from a 3-1 deficit in the second period to ultimately secure the overtime win. The Oilers stayed resolute, overcoming a Panthers team that had been unbeatable when leading after the first or second period in the past three playoff seasons.

Edmonton's forward Leon Draisaitl ignited the home crowd by scoring just 1:06 into the first period. However, the exuberance was dampened when Florida's Sam Bennett extended the Panthers' lead to 3-1 in the second period. Nonetheless, Viktor Arvidsson quickly responded, narrowing the gap to 3-2. Skinner’s stellar performance in goal kept the Oilers in the game despite being heavily outshot during the second period.

Captain Connor McDavid orchestrated a critical play in the third period, setting up Mattias Ekholm for the equalizer at 6:33. The Oilers dominated the third period, outshooting the Panthers 14-2 and pushing the game into overtime.

Overtime saw a fierce battle, with Edmonton seizing control and pinning the Panthers back. The turning point came when Panthers’ forward Tomas Nosek was penalized for delay of game, leading to a decisive power play. McDavid once again connected with Draisaitl, who netted the game-winner at 19:29.

The Oilers’ performance indicated that the series could be as thrilling as last year’s, with players and coaches alike anticipating a fiercely contested battle. Panthers coach Paul Maurice acknowledged the intensity of the match, suggesting that if Game 1 was any indication, fans could expect a "spectacular seven-gamer."

Post-game, the Oilers displayed a determined focus, aware that their job was far from finished. "It's a special feeling," Draisaitl commented, "It's great for right now. But we've got to look ahead and get ready for Game 2."

The anticipation for the next clash is palpable as both teams prepare to continue what promises to be an epic series. The Oilers, having learned from the past, are keenly aware that the ultimate prize still lies ahead.