The Florida Panthers aim to extend their series lead as they host the Edmonton Oilers in Game 4 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final on Thursday. Edmonton managed to win Game 1 in overtime on home ice, but Florida has since taken control of the series with consecutive victories. In Game 3 on Monday, Sergei Bobrovsky made 32 saves while six different Panthers players found the net in a decisive 6-1 win.
Game 4 is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. According to the latest odds, Florida is the moneyline favorite at -153, meaning a $153 wager would win $100. Edmonton is listed as the underdog at +128, where a $100 bet would yield $128. The projected total for goals scored (over/under) is set at 6.5. For those considering a handicap bet, the Panthers are -1.5 on the puck line with odds of +164. SportsLine`s top NHL expert, Matt Severance, known for his strong record (160-85-9 over his last 254 NHL picks), has analyzed the matchup and provided his betting insights.
Why Consider Backing the Oilers
Edmonton hasn`t suffered three consecutive losses since a regular-season slump back in February, when the stakes were considerably lower than in this Stanley Cup Final showdown. The Oilers have only dropped two games in a row once during the 2025 NHL playoffs, and they responded emphatically with a 7-4 victory against the Los Angeles Kings in that instance. Historically, Edmonton also boasts a solid 7-2 record in Game 4 scenarios dating back to 2022.
Superstar Connor McDavid was held off the scoresheet in Game 3, marking only the third time this postseason that has occurred. Following the previous two such games, he bounced back with multi-point performances. McDavid is expected to push hard in Game 4 to prevent his team from falling into a difficult 3-1 series deficit.
Why Consider Backing the Panthers
As noted by the expert, momentum is a powerful factor, particularly for a home team, and that currently favors the Florida Panthers. While Games 1 and 2 were tight, one-goal affairs that could have swung either way, Game 3 was clearly dominated by Florida. The offense, led by players like Sam Bennett, saw the Panthers score five or more goals for the 11th time in these playoffs.
Severance also points to Florida`s advantage in goal. Sergei Bobrovsky has faced 116 shots through three games and was exceptionally stingy in Game 3, allowing just one goal. Conversely, Edmonton`s Stuart Skinner struggled on Monday, being pulled after giving up five goals on 23 shots. According to the expert, Skinner`s performance this postseason has been inconsistent. This raises questions about Edmonton`s goaltending decision for Thursday, potentially bringing Calvin Pickard back into the net, despite him not having started a game in a month after allowing a goal on eight relief shots in Game 3.
Expert`s Game 4 Outlook
Matt Severance has finalized his expert prediction for the Oilers vs. Panthers Game 4 matchup. He is leaning towards the Over for the total score, but also highlights a critical factor that makes one particular side a compelling bet.
