The 2025 Stanley Cup Final is off to an incredible start with back-to-back overtime games to open the series. On Friday, it was the Florida Panthers getting the double overtime win, 5-4, to even the series, as if shifts back to Florida on Monday.
Here are some key takeaways from their win.
Hate Brad Marchand all you want, he is clutch
Brad Marchand is the classic love-hate player in the NHL.
You love him if he is on your team. You hate him if he is not. No matter what your emotions are toward him, you do have to acknowledge that he has not only had a great career, but that he is also clutch.
He kept adding to his postseason legacy on Friday night with two goals, including the game-winning goal in double overtime to tie the series at one game apiece.