While the Edmonton Oilers brought the Stanley Cup Final to a tie, some of London’s residents are feeling a renewed sense of optimism while others remain undecided.
“I’m just glad they managed to tie up the series,” said Phillip, a student at Fanshawe College. “I mean, Florida was playing so well to start the game, and I was really hoping Edmonton would persevere, and they did. They never gave up and tied up the series. It’s great.”
Photo taken by: The Athletic
The Oilers’ win over the Panthers in Game 4 has given some life to Canada’s Cup hopes.
Not everyone is optimistic, though.
“Honestly, it’s difficult to say,” said Seth, a Fanshawe staff member. “I believe the Panthers as a whole have a stronger team, but it’s difficult to go against McDavid and Draisaitl because they can just flip the switch.”
Others confess that they’re not rooting for either team but still manage to find their own reasons to watch the series.
“Brad Marchand needs to lose. That’s all I care about,” said Adam, another Fanshawe employee. “I don’t have a preference between the two teams because I’m also a Leafs fan. But if Brad Marchand loses, I’m happy.”
Marchand played for the Boston Bruins for sixteen years and is now playing for the Panthers, but the comment shows how far NHL rivalries extend even when the non-playoff teams aren’t playing.
Photo Taken by: TSN
Edmonton is aiming to become the first Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup since 1993, when the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Los Angeles Kings.
Up to this point in the postseason, Oilers superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have combined for over 50 points and proceeded to feature in the team’s comeback after falling early in the series.
With the series tied 2-2, the Stanley Cup Final shifts to a best-of-three. The Oilers will look to build on their momentum with home-ice advantage in Game 5, set for Saturday at 8 p.m. ET in Edmonton.
