Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final is set, with the Edmonton Oilers hosting the Florida Panthers. The series took an interesting turn after the Panthers initially gained a 2-1 lead with a decisive 6-1 victory at home in Game 3. However, the Oilers responded in Game 4 with a dramatic 5-4 overtime win, capped by Leon Draisaitl`s goal, bringing the series level at 2-2.
Puck drop for this pivotal Game 5 is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at Rogers Place in Edmonton. Betting markets see this as a very close contest. Edmonton is listed as a slight favorite with a -111 money line, meaning a $111 wager is needed to win $100. Florida is the underdog at -109, where a $109 bet can win $100. The total number of goals expected is set at 6.5. On the puck line, the Oilers are -1.5 with odds of +204.
According to a notable NHL expert with a strong record of 160-86-9 on his last 255 NHL predictions, this Game 5 presents intriguing factors for bettors.
Why Back the Panthers?
The Florida Panthers have proven to be a strong road team during the 2025 NHL playoffs, boasting a 9-3 record away from home. Their scoring depth is a significant asset, with 11 different players having registered at least two points in the series so far, compared to just two for Edmonton. Furthermore, goaltending could be a key advantage. Sergei Bobrovsky has been consistent for Florida, making over 30 saves in each of the first four games and maintaining a 2.27 goals-against average. In contrast, Edmonton`s starting goalie, Stuart Skinner, faced challenges and was replaced during both Game 3 and Game 4.
Why Back the Oilers?
While the concept of momentum in sports is debated, it`s difficult to ignore the confidence boost the Edmonton Oilers must have gained from their stunning comeback win in Game 4, where they overcame a 3-0 deficit. The Oilers have historically performed exceptionally well on their home ice in these playoffs, holding a 7-2 record at Rogers Place. A major factor in their home success is the performance of their star players. Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid have been highly productive in Edmonton during the 2025 playoffs, collectively accumulating 33 points across nine home games.
The expert`s analysis for Game 5 suggests a lean towards the Over on the total goals, while also highlighting a crucial factor that gives one team a distinct edge in the matchup.
