Stanley Cup Final: Betting Preview and Predictions for Game 3 – Oilers vs. Panthers

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The Stanley Cup Final has ignited excitement in the hockey community as the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers face off in a thrilling rematch. Though only two games have been played, both have lived up to the pre-series hype.

Game Recaps: A Look Back

Game 1: The series kicked off in dramatic fashion, featuring a back-and-forth battle that saw the Oilers overcome a 3-1 deficit to win 4-3, highlighted by Leon Draisaitl’s game-winning goal in overtime.

Game 2: The excitement continued in Game 2, where five goals were scored in the first period. Despite a late equalizer from veteran Corey Perry, it was Brad Marchand’s breakaway goal in double overtime that secured a 2-1 victory for the Panthers, leveling the series at 1-1.

Looking Ahead: Oilers vs. Panthers Game 3 Betting Preview

After splitting the first two games in Edmonton, the Panthers now find themselves as the betting favorites for the Stanley Cup. Current odds show Florida at -118 at FanDuel Sportsbook, showcasing how evenly matched this series is.

Key Betting Insights:

• Total Goals: The teams have scored 16 goals combined over two games, evenly distributed. However, the Panthers have outscored the Oilers 5-4 at 5-on-5 play.
• Power Plays: Both teams have found success on the power play, but Florida also managed to score a short-handed goal in Game 2.
• Expected Goals (xG): The metrics reveal just how tight the matchup is, as the two teams are separated by a mere 0.01 expected goals (xG) at 5-on-5 play—Florida boasting 7.03 xG compared to Edmonton’s 7.02.

Betty Odds Shift and Reactions

Given the intensity demonstrated in the initial games, it’s intriguing to note the odds shift for Game 3. The Panthers, who were underdogs in Game 1 and a pick in Game 2, now sit at -140 for Game 3—reflecting a significant move in the odds.

• Previous Odds Comparison:
  • Game 1: Oilers -125
  • Game 2: Pick’em
  • Game 3: Panthers -140

Oilers vs. Panthers Game 3 Prediction

Despite the betting lines favoring Florida, a close evaluation suggests there is value in backing the Oilers on the moneyline at +126 with Caesars Sportsbook. While many might be tempted to follow the trend, the statistical balance leans toward Edmonton.

Spotlight Player: Jake Walman

A noteworthy play could be Jake Walman, the Oilers’ defenseman who has been instrumental this postseason. His performance includes:

• 31 shots so far, with 7 in the Stanley Cup Final.
• His shot setup allowed for Corey Perry’s late-game tying goal in Game 2.

With the potential for increased offensive opportunities in Game 3, consider Walman as an intriguing bet:

• To score a goal: 15/1 at BetMGM
• To be the first goalscorer: 85/1

The Final Takeaway

THE PLAY:

• Bet on Oilers Moneyline (+126, Caesars Sportsbook)
• Bet on Jake Walman to Score a Goal (15/1, BetMGM)

This series is shaping up to be one for the ages, and with the odds so closely contested, each game could shift the balance of the Stanley Cup Final.

Stay up-to-date with all betting lines and statistics as this exhilarating series unfolds. For more betting insights, visit our dedicated NHL Betting section.