Florida Panthers Rely on Ekman-Larsson for Power Play Boost
The Florida Panthers are making a strategic adjustment to their power play for Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers.
Revisiting a previous strategy, the Panthers are reinstating Oliver Ekman-Larsson to the top power-play unit. Ekman-Larsson initi
ally led this unit at the season’s start before Brandon Montour returned from surgery. With the Panthers struggling against the Oilers’ top-ranked penalty kill, Ekman-Larsson was reintroduced during the final power play of Game 5.
Coach Paul Maurice expressed confidence in Ekman-Larsson’s abilities, recalling how he was a formidable power-play leader for Arizona and Vancouver. Maurice highlighted Ekman-Larsson’s composure and ability to find shooting lanes, qualities he hopes will challenge the Oilers.
“This is what he’s done for his entire life,” Maurice said, noting Ekman-Larsson’s skill at creating opportunities from the top of the power play.
The Panthers are 1-for-16 on the power play in this series, prompting Maurice to consider additional changes. However, Thursday’s practice featured Ekman-Larsson as the sole adjustment, switching from Montour’s right-handed shot to Ekman-Larsson’s lefty perspective. Both players are known for their powerful shots.
“He’s a good option there,” said Sasha Barkov. “He knows what to do there, so that’s pretty good.”
This season has been significant for Ekman-Larsson, who joined the Panthers after being bought out by the Vancouver Canucks in a record deal. His one-year contract with Florida offers him his first shot at the Stanley Cup, increasing his role and responsibilities.
“You see the veteran rise to the occasion,” Maurice said, praising Ekman-Larsson’s enthusiasm and leadership.
Stanley Cup Final 2024: Game 6 Overview
– Teams: Edmonton Oilers vs. Florida Panthers
– Series: Panthers lead 3-2
– When: Friday, 8 p.m.
– Where: Rogers Place, Edmonton, Alberta
– TV: ABC
– Streaming: ESPN+/Hulu
– Radio: Various local stations, SiriusXM 932, NHL app
Series Recap:
– Game 1: Florida 3, Edmonton 0
– Game 2: Florida 4, Edmonton 1
– Game 3: Florida 4, Edmonton 3
– Game 4: Edmonton 8, Florida 1
– Game 5: Edmonton 5, Florida 3
– Game 6: Florida at Edmonton, Friday
– Game 7 (if necessary): Edmonton at Florida, Monday, June 24
Path to the Final:
– Florida: Defeated Tampa Bay 4-1, Boston 4-2, New York Rangers 4-2
– Edmonton: Defeated Los Angeles 4-1, Vancouver 4-3, Dallas 4-2
Season Series: Florida won both matchups (5-3 on Nov. 20, 5-2 on Dec. 17).
All-time Series: Oilers lead 23-16-0, with 3 ties. First postseason meeting.
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