As the Edmonton Oilers prepare for Game 3 against the Florida Panthers, the reminiscence of last year's Stanley Cup Final looms large. Coach Kris Knoblauch emphasizes a renewed focus, hoping to capitalize on the lessons learned from their gut-wrenching Game 7 loss. With the series tied, the Oilers aim to leverage their previous experiences in the same arena where Connor McDavid faced disappointment. Forward Connor Brown notes that familiarity breeds comfort, and the Oilers are determined to harness any home-ice advantage the Panthers might have.

The Panthers excelled at home during last year's final, winning three out of four games. Oilers players recognize the tough competition ahead, acknowledging the atmosphere that can energize the home team. Sam Reinhart underscores the importance of using the crowd's energy to their advantage once the puck drops.

Zach Hyman's dislocated wrist has prevented him from playing in the Stanley Cup Final, a painful blow for the Edmonton Oilers as they face the Florida Panthers. After surgery to repair the injury sustained from a hit by Mason Marchment in the Western Conference finals, Hyman expressed his emotional reaction to a supportive video call from his teammates after their victory over the Dallas Stars. The team now rallies under the phrase 'Win it for Hyman.'

While A.J. Greer is ruled out for the Panthers due to an undisclosed injury, the Oilers welcome back Connor Brown, who has been pivotal during the playoffs. Coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged Brown's energy and presence as essential to the team's dynamics. Jeff Skinner seems poised to be scratched for Brown, indicating a strategic shift as the Oilers aim to clinch the Cup.

Connor Brown returns for the Stanley Cup final opener as the Edmonton Oilers face off against the Florida Panthers. After missing practice due to illness and two playoff games due to a hit from Alexander Petrovic, he declared himself ready to go. Brown has contributed five goals and three assists in 14 playoff games this season. In his absence, Jeff Skinner stepped up in Game 5, scoring his first playoff goal as the Oilers clinched a rematch with the Panthers, who previously defeated them in last year’s final after taking a 3-0 series lead.

The Panthers will be without A.J. Greer for Game 1 due to an undisclosed injury, further impacting their depth. Greer played in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference final, notching two goals and an assist this postseason. As the stakes rise, both teams will need their star players to perform at their best to capture the championship.

The Oilers are facing a crucial moment in the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers, with coach Kris Knoblauch indicating that Connor Brown, who missed the last game due to illness, is a game-time decision for the opener. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Brown, Jeff Skinner's performance has been noteworthy, particularly after scoring a key goal in the Western Conference finals. Skinner, who made his playoff debut only recently, expressed the heightened emotions that come with reaching this stage of the tournament. The adjustments in player lineup could be significant, especially with Skinner potentially retaining his place at the expense of Viktor Arvidsson if Brown is fit to play.