Panthers-Oilers predictions: Will Florida, favored to win its first Stanley Cup, slow down high-flying Edmonton?

Stanley Cup Final (Best-of-7 series)

Panthers vs. Oilers: Game 1 Saturday at Florida, 8 p.m., ABC

Latest line: Panthers favored in series (-125)

Dave Hyde, Sports Columnist: Panthers in 6

The Panthers have more depth, which could have a major impact in the series. They also are the more physical team and are hungrier after last year’s Stanley Cup disappointment against Las Vegas. Florida can also match Edmonton’s star talent and have the better defense and goalie.

Adam Lichtenstein, Sports Reporter: Panthers in 7

Edmonton has the stars. They have the offense. They’re an excellent all-around team. But the Panthers have a stellar defense, a knack for coming up clutch and the Stanley Cup Final experience. Besides, a Canadian team hasn’t won the Stanley Cup in Connor McDavid’s lifetime.

Ira Winderman, Sports Reporter: Panthers in 6

As with the Rangers’ series, the Panthers’ superior depth and ability to roll through four lines while blending skill and toughness will prove difficult to overcome. Plus, unlike the Rangers’ series, the Panthers have the clear advantage in net, with Sergei Bobrovsky. The stellar saves that Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin made last series will turn into Panthers goals this series.

Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Panthers in 7

The Panthers are favored in the series for good reason, especially having the clear advantage with goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Florida’s physical style also bodes well against Edmonton’s high-flying offense. Expect the Panthers to try to impose their will on Oilers star Connor McDavid, who has an NHL-leading 31 points these playoffs. But Edmonton, which beat a physical Canucks team in the second round, is a veteran team that won’t go quietly. As good as the Panthers have been on special teams, the Oilers have been better.