The Edmonton Oilers opened the Stanley Cup Final with a hard-fought victory over the Florida Panthers, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to win Game 1. Key to their success was defenseman Mattias Ekholm, who scored a critical goal to tie the game and has made a significant impact since returning from injury. Coach Kris Knoblauch praised Ekholm's leadership and contribution, while star Connor McDavid emphasized his importance both on and off the ice. Ekholm's regular-season stats of nine goals and 24 assists highlight his capability, and if he maintains this form, the Oilers could be poised to win their first Cup since 1990.