Panthers Dominate Oilers, Marchand & Bennett Lead Charge
Florida Puts Edmonton on the Brink of Elimination
The Florida Panthers are one win away from hoisting the Stanley Cup, dismantling the Edmonton Oilers 6-1 in Game 3. A relentless offensive performance, spearheaded by Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett, has left the Oilers reeling and facing elimination.
Bennett’s Physical Dominance Fuels Panthers
Marchand lauded Bennett’s impactful play, particularly a shift where he delivered crushing hits on both Vasily Podkolzin and John Klingberg before scoring his league-leading 14th goal of the playoffs. Marchand described Bennett as “an animal this whole playoffs,”
emphasizing his suitability for the intensity of the postseason.
MAKE A HIT ✅
POT A BEAUTY ✅Sam Bennett is an absolute force to be reckoned with. #StanleyCup
🇺🇸: @NHL_On_TNT & @SportsonMax ➡️ https://t.co/4TuyIATi3T
🇨🇦: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF pic.twitter.com/ZDgVkrwpKE— NHL (@NHL) June 10, 2025
Sam Reinhart playfully signaled to Marchand that it was time to conclude his praise, whispering “Bed.”
The Panthers’ depth has been a key factor in their success; they are currently averaging four goals per game throughout the playoffs, the best in the league.
Marchand Strikes Early, Panthers Pour It On
Marchand continued his stellar postseason, scoring just 56 seconds into the game, following up his double-overtime winner in Game 2. This marked his third consecutive goal for the Panthers. The Panthers’ offensive prowess is particularly notable given that, as of June 2025, they are the sixth team in NHL history to score five or more goals in 11 playoff games. (NHL.com)
BRAD MARCHAND PICKS UP RIGHT WHERE HE LEFT OFF 😱
LESS THAN A MINUTE INTO GAME 3, IT’S 1-0 FOR THE CATS 😼 pic.twitter.com/48RWC3fNIo
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 10, 2025
Following Bennett’s goal, the game escalated, culminating in a ten-player melee sparked by a series of cross-checks, including one from Trent Frederic that damaged his stick. Marchand praised Jonah Gadjovich for “doing an incredible job sticking up for the guys there and taking on Nurse.”
Oilers Face Uphill Battle
Despite a brief response from the Oilers via a power-play goal by Corey Perry, the Panthers quickly regained control, extending their lead with goals from Aleksander Barkov and again from Bennett. The Oilers’ coach, Kris Knoblauch, responded by calling for a practice session, acknowledging the need for improvement.
The Panthers’ depth, with lines led by Barkov, Bennett, and Marchand, presents a formidable challenge for the Oilers. Florida’s ability to consistently generate offense from all lines, coupled with their strong defensive play, positions them favorably to secure their second consecutive Stanley Cup championship.
