The 2025 Stanley Cup Final feels remarkably familiar, presenting a rematch between the exact same two teams, featuring the same prominent goaltenders and star players destined for the Hall of Fame.
However, the Edmonton Oilers are certainly hoping for a different outcome this time around.
Just twelve months after the Florida Panthers secured the first championship in their franchise history by defeating the Oilers in a thrilling seven-game series, both teams have once again reached the final stage. This upcoming series is only the fifth Stanley Cup Final rematch since 1968 and the first time since the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins faced each other in consecutive Finals in 2008 and 2009.
The 2024 Final was an emotional journey, with the Panthers initially building a commanding 3-0 lead. The Oilers then staged a remarkable comeback, winning three straight games to force a decisive Game 7, where Florida ultimately clinched the victory. If this year`s rematch brings anywhere near the level of drama seen last year, hockey fans are in for an absolute treat.
Before the second chapter of Panthers versus Oilers unfolds, let`s take a look back at some of the standout moments and highlights from the initial encounter between these now-rivals.Game 1: Panthers 3, Oilers 0
Game 1 set the tone for the series with a dominant performance from the Florida Panthers, resulting in a 3-0 shutout win. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky was a wall, stopping all 32 shots faced from the Oilers. Carter Verhaeghe netted the game-winning goal, and Sam Bennett made a significant impact with an assist and registering 11 hits in the physical contest.
Duncan Priestley 
Neville Woodall