As the Edmonton Oilers head back to Alberta for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers are preparing for their journey to the other side of the continent. The Panthers will depart from South Florida on Wednesday, enjoying an extra day of rest before embarking on a 2,543-mile flight to Edmonton.
The NHL has wisely scheduled two days between Games 2 and 3, recognizing the significant distance between the two teams in this final, the furthest in NHL history. This break ensures a fair playing field for both teams as they gear up for Game 3 in Edmonton on Thursday.
Florida Panthers' coach acknowledges the importance of the rest and travel logistics, emphasizing the need for parity in the series. The Panthers are planning to pass the time during the long flight with activities like sleep, card games, and television, with some players opting for poker to stay entertained.
Upon their arrival in Canada, the Panthers will carry momentum from their strong defensive play and standout performances, particularly from goalie Sergei Bobrovsky. Despite their advantage, the availability of captain Aleksander Barkov remains uncertain after a Game 2 injury.
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are looking to regroup after their power play, which led the postseason, has yet to score in the final series. Coach Kris Knoblauch emphasizes the need for sharper shooting and accuracy to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The extra day off provides the Oilers with an opportunity to address their shortcomings and make necessary adjustments before Game 3. Practice sessions and discussions with the coaching staff and management will be crucial in their preparations for the upcoming matchup.
As the series progresses, both teams are focused on fine-tuning their strategies and executing key plays to secure a pivotal win in the Stanley Cup Final.
