Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers is scheduled for Saturday in Edmonton. The series is currently tied after four games. Florida initially took a 2-1 lead with a convincing 6-1 home victory in Game 3. However, Edmonton managed a dramatic comeback in Game 4, sealed by Leon Draisaitl`s overtime goal, resulting in a 5-4 win to even the series.
The upcoming Game 5 will be played at Rogers Place, with puck drop set for 8 p.m. ET. Betting markets anticipate a close contest, with the Oilers slightly favored on the money line. The total number of goals expected in the game, according to the over/under, is set at 6.5.
SportsLine`s leading NHL expert, Matt Severance, who boasts an impressive record of 160-86-9 on his recent NHL picks, has thoroughly analyzed this crucial Game 5 matchup and shared his betting forecast.
Why Back the Panthers
Florida has proven their capability away from home throughout the 2025 playoffs, holding a solid 9-3 record on the road. This suggests they are well-equipped to perform effectively even without the advantage of playing on their home ice. A significant strength for the Panthers is their scoring depth, with 11 players contributing at least two points in the series, a greater distribution of offense compared to Edmonton.
Another key factor is goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, who has been a steady presence, making over 30 saves in each of the first four games while maintaining a 2.27 goals-against average for the series. This contrasts with the performance of Edmonton`s starting goalie, Stuart Skinner, who was substituted out of the net in Games 3 and 4.
Why Back the Oilers
While the impact of momentum in sports is often debated, the Oilers undoubtedly received a significant boost in confidence from their thrilling Game 4 comeback victory. Edmonton has been particularly formidable when playing at home during this playoff run, compiling a 7-2 record at Rogers Place. Adding to their home advantage, star forwards Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have been highly productive in Edmonton, combining for 33 points across their nine home playoff games this year.
Expert`s Game 5 Prediction
Matt Severance has locked in his final prediction for the Panthers vs. Oilers Game 5. Although he is leaning towards the total going Over, he has identified a critical “X-factor” that he believes makes one particular side of the wager a compelling choice.
