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Panthers Depth Making Difference in Stanley Cup Final

The Florida Panthers have a chance to repeat as champions thanks to the work of their third line.
Nick Horwat|
Jun 6, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Florida Panthers center Brad Marchand (63) reacts after making the game winning goal against the Edmonton Oilers during double overtime in game two of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
Jun 6, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Florida Panthers center Brad Marchand (63) reacts after making the game winning goal against the Edmonton Oilers during double overtime in game two of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images | Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

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Florida PanthersEdmonton Oilers

The Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers are just two games into the Stanley Cup Final, but it’s already some of the most entertaining hockey we’ve seen in a long time. With the series tied at one game apiece, and both of the first games needing overtime, the Panthers might find themselves with an edge as the series shifts to Florida.

According to TSN analyst Craig Button, the Panthers’ third line has been a crucial piece to their success in more ways than one. The trio of Brad Marchand, Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen can play offense, defense and aren’t afraid to get chippy when necessary.

“The third line, I think they’ve been fabulous,” Button said. “Killing penalties, scoring timely goals, being in the face of the Edmonton Oilers… The Oilers really haven’t had an opportunity to answer that line.”

The Panthers dropped Game 1 in overtime, but Marchand picked up a first period power play goal. He would be the hero in Game 2 with the game-winning goal in double overtime.

Button went on to say that star Panthers players like Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart haven’t done much in this series. Both have been held from the scoresheet in Games 1 and 2, but the third line is keeping the Florida alive.

“Without the contributions of the third line, this Panthers team would be behind 2-0,” Button said. “They’ve played heavy, they’ve played hard.”

Moneypuck.com currently gives the Panthers an edge to win the Stanley Cup with a 57.5% chance, but that is sure to take a huge jump if the likes of Barkov and Reinhart find their game. In the meantime, Marchand and company are doing just fine leading the way.

Marchand has 17 points (7G-10A) in 19 playoff games to this point and might be a long shot for the Conn Smythe Trophy, but shouldn’t be counted out as an option if he continues to lead the Panthers in such a crucial way.

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Nick Horwat
NICK HORWAT

Nick Horwat is a contributor with Breakaway On SI. He was previously a credentialed reporter for The Hockey News covering the Pittsburgh Penguins. A Pittsburgh native, Nick graduated from Point Park University and started reporting on news and sports with KDKA Radio and 93.7 The Fan. After hosting a Penguins talk radio show in college, he morphed the show into a podcast. The Tip of the Ice-Burgh Podcast has been a leading Penguins podcast since 2019. Follow him on Twitter @NickHorwat41.

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