As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup final, one player’s presence could be more important than ever.
Known for his combativeness and offensive prowess, Evander Kane’s contributions should be pivotal in a series that promises to be intensely physical. That is if he plays up to par. Kane’s also not 100-percent healthy. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch says he expects Kane will be good to go for Game 1, but he hadn’t been skating with the team until Friday, and he didn’t play in the final period of Game 6 versus the Dallas Stars.
Evander Kane ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/nF9QXTL3MV
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) June 7, 2024
WHO WILL MATCH THE PANTHERS’ PHYSICAL STYLE?
The Panthers are recognized as a more physical team than the Oilers. Their 739 hits in 17 playoff games far surpass Edmonton’s 563 hits in 18 games.
While the Oilers have beaten more physical teams already this post-season, Kane stands out on the Oilers roster as one of the few players who thrives under these rugged conditions. Currently, Kane is third in the NHL playoffs with 62 hits, showcasing his ability to match the physicality Florida brings.
In particular, Kane’s experience playing against Matthew Tkachuk is another critical asset that will be a storyline during this series.
In the 2022 playoffs, Kane effectively neutralized Tkachuk during the Calgary Flames and Oilers series, rendering him less effective. If Kane can slow Tkachuk down, it will be key to the Oilers’ success this time around. In a series where the intensity will be as high as it gets, Kane’s ability to stand up to players like
Sam Bennett and Tkachuk is invaluable. Should these players attempt to take liberties with Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, Kane should not be afraid to respond in kind, ensuring that the Oilers’ top players can focus on their game.
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