**Oilers Draw First Blood in Thrilling Game 1 Overtime Victory Over Panthers**

The Edmonton Oilers secured a dramatic 4-3 overtime victory against the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final on Wednesday. This initial showdown set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying series, harking back to last year's dramatic seven-game battle. With both teams returning stronger and more formidable, the anticipation for this rematch was palpable.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice summed up the intensity of the opening game: "There's not any casualness, and there's no BS in either team's game. It was honest, it was hard, it was fast, and it was tight. It was an overtime game." The improvements since their last encounter were evident on both sides, making a significant impact on the ice.

Florida entered the series with added scoring depth thanks to Brad Marchand and bolstered defense with Seth Jones. Edmonton, on the other hand, showcased a stiffer defense with the addition of Jake Walman and strategic depth moves, resulting in a more balanced team. The result was a fiercely contested Game 1 that saw constant back-and-forth action, culminating in an overtime showdown.

Leon Draisaitl was the star for Edmonton, netting the game-winning goal on a power play with just 31 seconds left in overtime. Draisaitl, who had not scored in last year’s Final, made a statement by scoring his first Stanley Cup Final goal just 66 seconds into the game and clinching the win in overtime. His performance set several records, including the fastest opening goal in a Final in nearly 50 years and tying the record for most overtime goals in a playoff year.

"He’s invaluable," said teammate Connor McDavid, who assisted on the game-winner. "Clutch, face-offs, you name it he does it. He doesn’t get enough respect or credit for his defensive abilities. When he's dug in there's not many -- maybe nobody -- better."

The Panthers were relentless, with Sam Bennett continuing his remarkable postseason form by scoring early in the first period and setting a new franchise record with his 12th goal of the playoffs. Despite being on the road and facing a robust Oilers penalty kill, Bennett's gritty play and net-front presence gave the Panthers a temporary lead.

Brad Marchand also made his mark, scoring his eighth career Stanley Cup Final goal, tying for the most among active players. His power-play goal, resulting from a failed coaching challenge, gave Florida a lead they held until the third period. Despite the loss, the Panthers showcased their resilience and determination.

Edmonton’s top talent proved they're not going down without a fight, evidenced by Draisaitl’s remarkable performance and the team’s improved resilience. As the series progresses, fans can expect more nail-biting action and possibly another seven-game classic between these two elite teams.