Connor McDavid Sends Clear Warning to Panthers Before Stanley Cup Final
The Edmonton Oilers are heading back to the Stanley Cup Final with the goal of redemption in mind.
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Last year's Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers still lingers, but the tone around Edmonton's return is far more composed.
With a rematch now set, Oilers captain Connor McDavid made it clear that this version of the team is sharper, stronger and far from spent — as it presumably was last season.
Edmonton's road to the 2025 Stanley Cup Final has looked different from its path a year ago. There was early turbulence in April against the Los Angeles Kings as the Oilers went down 0-2 to start the first-round series, but Edmonton has won 12 of its last 14 postseason games.
McDavid said the team's emotional approach has shifted entirely from last year.
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"We're better for going through last year. It was a great learning experience, and it's driven us all year," McDavid said. "This run has felt different than last year. It's felt very normal. It hasn't been as emotional. That's put us in a good position.
"Those games can be emotionally draining. We're not drained."
Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) celebrates after a goal in the third period of Game 1 against the LA Kings at Crypto.com Arena. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
McDavid also said the Oilers have yet to reach their peak, even though their 12-4 playoff record wouldn't make anyone believe that.
"It's been a different experience. Some teams get really hot down the stretch, and they ride it all the way through the playoffs," McDavid said. "For us, it's come together in the playoffs. We've been building and building and building our game.
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"We're starting to see some of our best hockey. Our best hockey is still in front of us, which is a great thing."
Florida swept the first three games of last year's Final before Edmonton forced and ultimately lost a deciding Game 7. Contrary to last season, the Oilers have home-ice advantage this year.
Related: Matthew Tkachuk Sends Clear Message About Oilers-Panthers Stanley Cup Final
Related: NHL Reveals Oilers-Panthers 2025 Stanley Cup Final Schedule, Dates, Times
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
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