Fresh off an overtime comeback win in Game 1 on Wednesday, the Edmonton Oilers aim to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the Stanley Cup Final. Leon Draisaitl, who topped the NHL with 52 regular-season goals, netted his second goal of the game off a superb pass from Connor McDavid, giving the Oilers the initial edge in the best-of-seven series. Edmonton enters the pivotal Game 2 on Friday having won 13 of their last 15 contests since dropping their first two playoff matchups.
Game 2 is scheduled for an 8 p.m. ET puck drop on Friday at Rogers Place in Edmonton. The latest betting odds favor the Oilers at -128 (bet $128 to win $100), with the Panthers listed as +108 underdogs (bet $100 to win $108). For detailed analysis and predictions for Panthers vs. Oilers Game 2, consult SportsLine expert Eric Cohen.
Eric Cohen, a SportsLine expert and *Early Edge* contributor, boasts a strong track record, including two recent golf winners and a top-three ranking among college football experts on the platform. Known for his versatile expertise, Cohen has also placed a series wager on the Oilers to win the Stanley Cup at -120 odds.
Below are Eric Cohen`s top betting picks for Game 2 of the Panthers vs. Oilers series:
- Oilers ML (-128)
- Under 6.5 goals (-125)
- Connor McDavid to score (+155)
- Panthers vs. Oilers score prediction: Oilers 3, Panthers 2
Cohen`s breakdown suggests Edmonton was the better team in Game 1, potentially deserving a larger victory margin given their 46-32 shot advantage over Florida. While dismissing the reigning champions is unwise, the Oilers` offense is currently performing exceptionally well. Their impressive 7-1 home record this season makes another loss on Friday seem unlikely from his perspective. Despite Florida`s perceived goaltending edge with Sergei Bobrovsky over Stuart Skinner, Game 1`s momentum shift, where the Panthers surrendered a 3-1 second-period lead, coupled with the home crowd energy, favors Edmonton. Cohen anticipates the Oilers will establish an early lead and narrowly secure the win, extending their series advantage to 2-0. He also recommends a bet on Connor McDavid scoring a goal, offered at +155 odds.
