Brad Marchand and the Florida Panthers experienced heartbreak in Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. The Edmonton Oilers won Game 1 in overtime thanks to Leon Draisaitl's overtime winner. In Game 2, the Panthers had to scratch and claw their way to victory. It even took overtime to seal the deal, but they were able to get the job done.

Florida had the lead late in the third period thanks to a goal from Marchand in the second. The Panthers held this lead until late in the period. Oilers veteran Corey Perry scored with less than 20 seconds left to force overtime. However, Marchand came up big again in the extra frame to give Florida the win and even the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at 1-1 as the series shifts to Sunrise, Florida.

Florida heads home with a massive boost in confidence after Game 2. They had their moments to claim victory in regulation in this game. However, it took overtime to sink the Oilers. And evening the series is all they will care about at the end of the night.

Panthers' Brad Marchand turns back the clock

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Marchand said the Panthers reminded him of his 2011 Boston Bruins squad when he first joined the team. That Bruins team had an incredible season en route to the Stanley Cup. Marchand played a big role in helping Boston defeat the Vancouver Canucks in seven games.

Marchand's goal in the second period invoked images of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, as well. The Panthers star had a breakaway while shorthanded and slotted it home. It wasn't too dissimilar to the shorthanded goal he had against the Canucks 14 years ago.

Marchand may have saved Florida's season with his heroics in Game 2. The series is certainly far from over. However, his two-goal night definitely gives the Panthers a measure of confidence heading into Game 3 against the Oilers on Monday night.