The stage is set for a winner-take-all conclusion to the NHL season with Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers.
After a dramatic series that saw the Panthers take an early lead, only for the Oilers to storm back and even the series, fans of every NHL team are anticipating one of the best hockey games we’ve seen in years.
For bettors like ourselves, this final game is ripe with opportunities. Here's a detailed look at what to consider when betting on this high-stakes showdown.
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With the two best teams in the NHL going head-to-head in the final game of the series, this will be an interesting take.
The series has been a rollercoaster. The Panthers dominated the early games, winning the first three. It looked as if Florida was going to sweep the Oilers and it didn’t make sense. However, the Oilers, led by their superstar captain Connor McDavid, clawed their way back to win the next three games.
This comeback sets the stage for an unpredictable Game 7. The series is all tied up at 3 games a piece. Tonight is a winner-take-all. Everything these teams have worked for boils down to the 60 minutes on the ice tonight.
It's going to be a wild one.
Of course, if you’re betting on the big game, then obviously, you want to watch it.
Game 7 will take place on Monday night at 8 p.m. ET at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC in the United States and on Sportsnet and CBC in Canada. For those who prefer streaming, the game will be available on ESPN+ and Fubo. There’s no shortage of options, so finding it shouldn’t be hard.
Before loading up your bet slip at DraftKings or Bet365, take a moment to see what’s really going on with these two powerhouses.
Winner: Edmonton
Momentum is often debated in sports betting, but we can see why.
The Oilers have all the psychological advantage after erasing a 3-0 deficit. This kind of momentum can be crucial in a high-pressure game like the one tonight. The Oilers' recent stroke of luck and their ability to handle pressure could give them an edge, making them a strong bet. They’ve got all of the momentum heading into this game, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to win, but it’s definitely a consideration.
If we’ve learned anything, it is that each game is a new opportunity for both teams.
Winner: Florida
The Panthers will have the home crowd behind them, which can be a huge factor. Historically, teams playing at home in Game 7s have a slightly better winning percentage. However, this advantage might be neutralized by the Oilers' given that they’ve already won once in Florida.
Winner: Tied
Some may argue that goaltending is the biggest factor in the playoffs. Panthers' Sergei Bobrovsky (15-8, 2.38 GAA, .903 SV%) has been solid but has shown he’s not invincible in the last three games. On the other hand, Oilers' Stuart Skinner (14-8, 2.46 GAA, .901 SV%) has been exceptional, especially in the last three games where he outplayed Bobrovsky — by a long shot.
We’re thinking betting on Skinner to continue his stellar performance could be wise. He’s in full stride. Regardless, both netminders will have to be smoking hot tonight.
Between all of the online sportsbooks, there’s no shortage of bet types on the line. Here are a few of our favorites.
Given the current situation, betting on the Oilers to win might be a good idea. Their recent victories and McDavid's leadership make them the team to beat. However, for those who believe in the home-ice advantage, the Panthers could still be a viable pick. It’s going to be a close one no matter what, so we recommend staying away from the puck line bets.
Best Odds: Bet365 Over 5.5 at +125
Best Odds: DraftKings Under 5.5 at -150
Both teams have had fluctuating offensive performances as well as goaltending performances. The over/under line for total goals scored is set at 5.5 for tonight's game, so the bookmakers are thinking it could be a lower scoring game. Considering the pressure of Game 7 and the potential for tight defense and goaltending, betting on the under might be prudent in this case. However, every game since game 3 has beat the over.
Prop bets are fun and sometimes not a bad way to rake in a bit of profit. Here are a few that we like for tonight’s game.
First goal scorer. McDavid is always a good choice, given his scoring ability, and he’s been smoking hot as of late.
Total shots on goal. Betting on the Oilers to have more shots could pay off, given their aggressive play style in recent games.
Power play goals. The Oilers have been dominant on special teams. Betting on them to score a power-play goal is a no-brainer.
So, what does each team need to do heading into tonight’s game? Here are a few of our thoughts.
The Oilers need to stick to what has worked in the past three games, and we think they’ll be just fine—
Quick transitions. Moving the puck quickly to counteract the Panthers' forecheck. They’ve been dominant with this so far, so keep the puck moving.
Special teams dominance. Maintaining their edge on the power play and penalty kill. This will be crucial as this has been the game-changer in the last 3 games.
Reliable goaltending. Another stellar performance from Skinner is crucial. He’s dominating between the pipes, and we can’t imagine that he will let up.
For the Panthers, a few adjustments from their previous 3 games could make a difference—
Strong start. They need to avoid falling behind early, which has been a pattern. Come out of the gates swinging and keep pressure with their excellent forechecking.
Physical play. Utilizing their physicality without taking unnecessary penalties. That’s going to be a balance because Edmonton will seize the opportunity if they get a power play.
Power play adjustments. Implementing changes such as moving Ekman-Larsson to the point could improve their power play. In the end, however, they still have to get past Skinner.
Experts are split, but many, to include us, lean towards the Oilers due to their current momentum and McDavid's leadership. We understand that the home ice advantage might play a role and the crowd at Amerant Bank Arena can get loud, but Edmonton is hungry and wants to bring the Stanley Cup back to Canada.
It’ll be a close game, but we’re thinking 3-2 in favor of Edmonton.
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