Panthers Fans Erupt in Outrage on Social Media After Oilers Stun With Game 1 Comeback

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 1:25 PM ET

Panthers fans were fuming on social media after the Oilers came back to win Game 1, going as far as calling Edmonton a bunch of cheaters.

How is the nation of Florida Panthers hockey reacting to the Edmonton 4-3 overtime win in Game 1? Not good, and a lot are pointing fingers.

From the mainstream media outlets to podcasts and social media, the blame game was rampant. Even a few fans went as far as accusing the Oilers of cheating.

'They cheated y'all. It's all good though. Only win they'll have.'

'Panthers had an off night and still were able to take a fiery edmonton team to OT. they'll be ok'.

'Panthers were the better the team. Never easy on the pp when they've got McDavid and Drisital. Panthers in six'.

'Could the media gush any more for Edmonton and McDavid? It was gross.'

'Head up. It took a penalty call late in overtime to give the Oilers a chance to win the game. If I'm Florida, I'm feeling pretty confident.'

But the facts speak otherwise. Edmonton opened up big, with seven Grade A chances in the first period against Florida's four. The Panthers responded in the second, out-chancing the Oilers 5-2.

Edmonton had way more Grade A scoring chances, so they definitely did not cheat

But the third and overtime periods belonged to Edmonton, out-shooting Florida 10-3 in high-danger chances. Final tally: 19 Grade A shots for Edmonton, 12 for Florida. The Oilers took this one, and definitely not by cheating.

Physicality came into play, too. Edmonton sent an early message that they wouldn't be bullied around, and they did a little bullying around of their own.

Evander Kane was especially effective, making hard plays in the corners that netted two Oilers goals.

Let's discuss the 'cheating' accusations. Both fan groups were irate. Oilers fans were livid about a supposed uncalled Niko Mikkola slew-foot on Connor McDavid, and Panthers fans were outraged about what they perceived to be an uncalled too-many-men infraction by Edmonton in overtime.

In the end, it's playoff hockey, and the officials typically allow them to play. Game 2 on Friday night is sure to bring a lot more fireworks.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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