The 2025 Stanley Cup Final series between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers has begun with two intense games decided in overtime. This sets the stage for Game 3, scheduled for Monday in Florida. Edmonton secured the first win in overtime, but Florida countered with a victory in double overtime in Game 2. In the second game, the Panthers allowed the latest tying goal recorded in Stanley Cup Final history before ultimately winning 5-4 in the second extra period thanks to Brad Marchand`s goal for the defending champions. Game 3 is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise.
Looking at the current betting odds for the Panthers vs. Oilers Game 3, Florida is listed as a -146 favorite on the money line (meaning you risk $146 to win $100), while Edmonton is the underdog at +123 (risk $100 to win $123). The over/under for the total number of goals scored in the game is set at 6.5. For those betting on the puck line, Florida is -1.5 at +166.
The SportsLine Projection Model, known for simulating each NHL game 10,000 times, has demonstrated significant accuracy. Heading into the first week of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, the model held an impressive combined record of 80-56 on top-rated NHL puck-line and over/under betting selections, proving profitable for bettors who followed its recommendations.
Model`s Top Picks for Game 3:
- Oilers +1.5 on the puck line (-202)
- Under 6.5 total goals (-120)
Although the first two games of the Stanley Cup Final saw the total go Over, this was largely influenced by high scoring in the initial periods (three goals in the first period of Game 1 and five in the first period of Game 2). It is anticipated that both coaches will emphasize stronger defensive play from the start in Game 3. The teams managed only two goals combined across the final three periods of Friday`s lengthy double-overtime game. Based on this analysis, the model rates the pick for the total goals to be Under 6.5 on Monday as an A-grade selection.
Elton Marrow