In a crucial Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers, the Florida Panthers are aiming to get their star goaltender, Sergei Bobrovsky, back on track. Bobrovsky's absence from practice on Sunday was part of the Panthers' strategy to return him to his usual routine ahead of the high-stakes game at the Amerant Bank Arena on Monday.

The Panthers have high expectations for the 35-year-old goalie, as they seek to end their three-game losing streak and secure their first-ever Stanley Cup victory. Team forward Matthew Tkachuk expressed confidence in Bobrovsky, highlighting his exceptional preparation and focus throughout the playoffs.

Panthers coach Paul Maurice explained that the team had adjusted Bobrovsky's practice schedule as the playoffs progressed. Bobrovsky would skip practice on the day before games during the first three rounds, but would participate when there was a two-day break in the Cup Final. By allowing Bobrovsky to skip practice on Sunday, the Panthers aim to restore his previous rhythm and routine ahead of the crucial match.

Bobrovsky had initially showcased his brilliance in the Cup Final, giving the Panthers hope of clinching victory. He had an outstanding performance in the first three games, stopping 82 of 86 shots and boasting an impressive goals-against average (GAA) of 1.33 and a save percentage of .953. However, his play has faltered in the past three games, coinciding with the Panthers' losing streak. Bobrovsky has conceded 12 goals on 58 shots, resulting in a GAA of 5.06 and a save percentage of .793.

Tkachuk emphasized that the team's defensive efforts need improvement and that the blame should not fall solely on Bobrovsky. The Panthers understand the necessity of tightening up defensively, starting games stronger, and avoiding trailing early on, which could leave the team vulnerable to opposing attacks.

Despite the recent setbacks, Maurice commended Bobrovsky's performance in Game 6, stating that he appeared strong and solid. The Panthers' coach also noted the team's effort to limit short-handed breakaways, which had plagued them in previous games. The Panthers will strive to replicate their defensive efforts in the upcoming game to give Bobrovsky the best chance for success.

While Bobrovsky and defenseman Aaron Ekblad rested on Sunday, the rest of the Panthers engaged in a focused practice, aiming to address areas of weakness that have led to their lopsided 18-5 scoreline deficit in the past three games. The power play, in particular, was a key focus, as the Panthers have struggled against the Oilers' penalty kill, scoring only once on 19 power play opportunities in the Cup Final.

The Panthers' captain, Aleksander Barkov, acknowledged the Oilers' impressive penalty kill performance and emphasized the importance of recognizing their opponent's strengths. The team remains determined to deliver their best performance in all aspects of the game – from 5-on-5 play to power plays and penalty kills.

With their backs against the wall, the Panthers face their final chance to achieve their season-long goal of winning the Stanley Cup. A victory in Game 7 would not only erase the memory of their recent three-game slump but would also mark the first championship in the franchise's 30-season history. However, failure to recover from their current situation would place them in an unfortunate position, joining the ranks of the 1942 Detroit Red Wings as the only teams to lose a best-of-seven Cup Final after winning the first three games.

The Panthers are channeling desperation and determination as they prepare for the high-stakes match. Their aim is to bring the necessary energy and momentum to fight for a win, avoiding a repeat of their disappointment in last year's Cup Final. The team is hopeful that a rejuvenated Bobrovsky and improved overall performance will secure them a historic victory.