Ryan Hodges
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Saturday marks a bittersweet day in the NHL. Bitter in that it is the beginning of the final games in the 2023-24 season. But sweet in that we get to witness what sets up to be a memorable Stanley Cup Final. From the potential of Connor McDavid getting his first cup, the Panthers franchise getting their first cup, to the matchup of veteran coach vs rookie coach, there is no shortage of narratives in this final. What we know for sure is these are fantastic teams that make for a great, long Stanley Cup Final.
Along with our Oilers vs Panthers Same Game Parlay, be sure to check out our NHL predictions for today’s action!
Panthers ML (-140)
Under 5.5 total goals (-104)
Sam Bennett over 0.5 points (+210)
Panthers vs Rangers Same Game Parlay odds: +600
Panthers ML (-140)
Game 1 looks a bit better for the Panthers. Florida is already arguably the better, deeper team from top to bottom. While that is a thin margin given the Oilers’ top end talent, the Panthers’ health, experience, home-ice advantage, and style of play only add to any roster advantage.
The Panthers were 2 wins away from winning the Stanley Cup last year, but it looked like they were hurt and ran out of gas. This time around, they appear healthy, rested, and learned lessons from last year about how to prepare for and handle the Stanley Cup Finals. They will also get an added jolt from the home crowd’s energy. Look for the Panthers to stay composed, keep the Oilers on their heels, and take Game 1 at home.
Under 5.5 total goals (-104)
This series could very well open up offensively with each game played. But Game 1 has the makings of a low total. Both teams will be feeling each other out a little bit, not taking many chances, and will likely look to set the tone physically. With that tighter style of play, offensive production is less likely.
A low total would only reinforce recent trends for both the Oilers and Panthers. The under has hit in 5 out of Edmonton’s last 7 games, as well as in their last 5 straight played on the road. The total has also gone under in 8 out of Florida’s last 9 games. These teams are shutting opponents down. Until or unless trends change, the under has more appeal.
Sam Bennett over 0.5 points (+210)
A Sam Bennett points prop gives good value to this same-game parlay. Bennett has been fantastic for the Panthers in these playoffs. He has produced 6 goals and 10 points in 12 games payed, and he has brought the physical play needed for a Stanley Cup team. Bennett plays important minutes with star players both 5 on 5 and on the power play. This is a guy worth taking a chance on.
Sam Bennett is currently slotted on the second line centering Matthew Tkachuk and Evan Rodrigues. He is also on the second power play with Rodrigues, Anton Lundell, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. The opportunity will be there for Sam Bennett to produce. His prop to do so brings solid value here.
