The Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers are set to clash Friday night in Game 6 of their best-of-7 Stanley Cup Final series. The Panthers currently hold a 3-2 lead. The puck drops at 8 p.m. ET from Rogers Place in Edmonton, and you can catch the action on ABC and ESPN+. Let's dive into BetMGM Sportsbook’s odds for the game, along with some expert NHL picks and predictions.
Panthers vs. Oilers: A Thrilling Showdown
The Panthers had initially built a commanding 3-0 series lead, but Edmonton has clawed its way back, winning the last two games. The question now is, can Florida close it out, or will the Oilers force a decisive Game 7?
In the first three games, the Panthers dominated, outscoring the Oilers 11-4. Edmonton struggled on the power play, going 0-for-10. However, the Oilers have started to find their groove, especially with the man advantage. In Game 4, they went 1-for-6 in an 8-1 victory, and in Game 5, they were 2-for-5 in a 5-3 win in Florida.
Connor McDavid has been nothing short of spectacular, especially in Game 5, where he notched 2 goals and 4 points. Over the last three games, he’s racked up 3 goals and 10 points, including three power-play assists. His playoff performance has been historic, tallying 8 goals and 42 points, breaking Wayne Gretzky’s assist record for a single postseason (31 in 1988).
Can Edmonton Make History?
The Oilers are aiming to become only the second team in NHL history to come back from an 0-3 deficit to win the Stanley Cup Final. The only team to do so was the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1942 against the Detroit Red Wings.
Betting Odds Breakdown
Moneyline (ML):
- Panthers: +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
- Oilers: -120 (bet $120 to win $100)
Puck Line (PL)/Against the Spread (ATS):
- Panthers: +1.5 (-250)
- Oilers: -1.5 (+200)
Over/Under (O/U):
- 5.5 goals (Over: -115, Under: -105)
Projected Goalies
Panthers: Sergei Bobrovsky
- Record: 15-7-0
- GAA: 2.35
- Save %: .906
- Shutouts: 2
Oilers: Stuart Skinner
- Record: 13-8-0
- GAA: 2.54
- Save %: .898
- Shutouts: 1
Bobrovsky has been a force throughout the playoffs but has shown some cracks recently, allowing 9 goals on just 39 shots over the last two games. This is the most goals he’s conceded in a two-game span since facing the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round. It's also the first time he’s allowed 3 or more goals in three consecutive games since January.
On the other hand, Skinner has been solid, conceding only 4 goals on 65 shots in the last two games. He’s managed to keep his goals-against to 3 or fewer in 7 of his last 8 appearances.
Picks and Predictions
Prediction: Oilers 4, Panthers 3
Moneyline: The Oilers at -120 are the pick. With McDavid in peak form, Edmonton has roared back to life, especially on home ice. Their offense has exploded for 16 goals in the last three games, including 13 in the previous two. Betting on the Panthers at +1.5 (-250) might seem like a safe bet, but the high cost for minimal return isn't worth it. So, it's a pass on that.
Over/Under: Taking the Over 5.5 (-115) is a strong play here. Despite the trend of offenses tightening up as a series progresses, this matchup has been the exception. The last three games have all seen at least 7 goals, far above the average of 3.5 goals per game from the first two games. Stick with the hot hand and bet the over.
Key Highlights to Watch
- Connor McDavid’s Performance: McDavid has been on fire, and his ability to carry the Oilers could be the deciding factor.
- Goaltending Battle: Bobrovsky’s recent struggles versus Skinner’s steadiness will be crucial.
- Special Teams: Watch the power play; Edmonton’s improvement in this area has been pivotal.
Stream and Play
Catch all the NHL action on ESPN+, featuring out-of-market games, exclusives, and original content. And if you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at the free daily Pick’em Challenge and see if you can win big!
In summary, Game 6 is poised to be an epic battle with high stakes. The Oilers, led by the phenomenal McDavid, are fighting to keep their Stanley Cup dreams alive, while the Panthers are looking to finally close out the series. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the excitement, this game is a must-watch.
Login