The Florida Panthers took on the Edmonton Oilers in an intense game marked by solid fan support, especially from the Oilers’ side. Even before Game 1 began, the Oilers’ faithful enthusiastically sang the Canadian national anthem. The Oilers started with great optimism, generating scoring chances right from the first 30 seconds of the game. The final score of 3-0 did not do the Oilers justice.
Despite these efforts, Panthers’ goalie Sergei Bobrovsky was in stellar form, consistently making outstanding saves. The crowd’s chants of “Bobrovsky” grew louder as the game progressed. He was simply dominant. There was a key moment when Connor Brown attempted to score on a loose puck, but the goal was disallowed due to interference.
Other than Bobrovsky, Sam Bennett was a standout player for the Panthers. He dominated the game with his physical play and crucial assist. Despite not scoring, Connor McDavid played exceptionally well, putting six shots on goal. The Oilers ultimately fell to the Panthers in a shutout. Still, the game was filled with high energy and impressive performances.
Related: Can the Oilers Tame the Panthers’ ‘Rat Trick’ Magic?
Three Reasons the Oilers Lost to the Panthers
The Oilers lost to the Panthers in Game 1 for three key reasons. First was Bobrovsky’s outstanding performance in the crease. He was the game’s first star, making numerous saves and thwarting every Oilers’ scoring attempt, including breakaway chances and power play opportunities.
Second, the Oilers’ game was a story of rotten bounces and missed opportunities. In many ways, the Oilers outplayed the Panthers. Yet, despite creating multiple high-quality scoring chances, the Oilers could not capitalize. As noted, this lack of finish was partly due to Bobrovsky’s goalkeeping. However, it was also partly due to the inability to finish plays successfully.
Third, the Oilers had two defensive lapses that cost them. It wasn’t as if the Oilers struggled with defensive consistency. It was more that they made a couple of coverage mistakes, and the Panthers made them pay. Part of the Panthers’ success could be attributed to their aggressive forecheck and transition game, which allowed Florida to capitalize on two turnovers.
Three Reasons the Oilers Should Feel Good About the Game
At the same time as the Oilers feel bad about the loss, there are three reasons they should also feel buoyed by the game. First, they showed they could play the Panthers game – almost better than the Panthers played it. That resulted in the Oilers doubling the Panthers’ shots on goal. They had no trouble generating offensive chances. They had trouble putting the puck past Bobrovsky.
Second, the Oilers got strong play from their key players. McDavid was in great form, contributing with his playmaking and offensive efforts. If he continues to perform at this level, this bodes well for future games.
Third, the Oilers maintained high energy and resilience throughout the game. They continuously created chances and kept the game competitive. They know they can play with the Panthers, and that mindset is crucial as they move forward in the series. Given how the game went, the Oilers know they can bounce back from a tough loss.
Oilers Will Seek Redemption in Game 2
To win Game 2 in Florida, the Oilers must build on their strengths and address areas of needed improvement from Game 1. Capitalizing on their high shot volumes will be crucial. If they don’t score, they cannot win. In short, the Oilers must find ways to convert their numerous scoring chances into goals, which may involve more strategic shot placement and screening the goalie.
Second, the Oilers need to maintain defensive discipline all the time. This discipline is essential to countering the Panthers’ aggressive forecheck and quick transitions. Edmonton must minimize turnovers and effectively clear the puck out of its defensive zone. Finally, key players like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl must continue their strong play.
However, perhaps more important is that the Oilers must figure out how to exploit any weaknesses in Bobrovsky’s game. Fans can bet that this will include creating more chaos in front of the net and forcing Bobrovsky to make more difficult saves. He made things look too easy in Game 1.
He’s the real deal, and the Oilers must figure him out.
Related: Coffey’s Impact on Bouchard?: A Surge in Offensive Production