After a decisive 6-1 victory in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers have taken a 2-1 series lead over the Edmonton Oilers. However, despite the lopsided score and the Panthers' apparent dominance, some observers believe the Oilers might be in a favorable position.

The Oilers' perspective hinges on a few key factors. First, they recognize that the series is far from over. Edmonton aimed to secure a split on the road, and despite the Game 3 setback, they still have an opportunity to achieve that in Game 4. Oilers captain Connor McDavid emphasized the need to "find a way to win a game" and secure that split before returning to Edmonton.

Secondly, the Oilers are banking on the notion that their best hockey is yet to come. McDavid openly admitted that the team hasn't performed to its full potential throughout the series. The Oilers are confident that they can elevate their game and present a greater challenge to the Panthers as the series progresses. They believe that their speed and skill can still be a major factor. While McDavid was held without a point in Game 3, he and Leon Draisaitl remain offensive threats that can change the momentum of a game in a single play.

Thirdly, Edmonton hopes to capitalize on special teams. The Oilers' power play, which was a major weapon throughout the playoffs, has struggled in the Final. In contrast, the Panthers have been able to convert on their power play opportunities, which proved to be a difference maker in Game 3. The Oilers need to rediscover their power-play touch to swing the momentum in their favor.

However, the Oilers need to address the issues that led to their Game 3 defeat. They took undisciplined penalties. According to Oilers forward Evander Kane, the Oilers believe that the Panthers "seem to get away with it more than we do" when it comes to penalties. The Oilers were assessed 21 penalties for 85 minutes in Game 3. Edmonton must stay disciplined and avoid giving the Panthers easy opportunities on the power play.

The Panthers, on the other hand, seem to have found their rhythm. After splitting the first two games in Edmonton, they returned home and imposed their will on the Oilers in Game 3. Florida's success stemmed from a combination of factors, including strong goaltending from Sergei Bobrovsky, timely scoring from throughout their lineup, and a physical, disruptive style of play that frustrated the Oilers.

Florida's depth has been a key factor. Six different players scored in Game 3, demonstrating the Panthers' ability to generate offense from multiple sources. Veteran forward Brad Marchand has been a consistent contributor, scoring in all three games of the series. Sam Bennett's physical presence and offensive contributions have also been crucial.

The Panthers' physical play and their ability to draw penalties have also been a significant advantage. They have effectively disrupted the Oilers' flow and forced them into taking unnecessary penalties. The Panthers are comfortable playing a tight-checking, grinding style of game, which can be difficult for the Oilers to handle.

Ultimately, the Oilers' hopes of turning the series around hinge on their ability to execute their game plan, stay disciplined, and find a way to unlock their offensive potential. While the Panthers have the momentum, the Oilers have the talent and experience to make this a long and competitive series. Game 4 will be a crucial test of their resilience and determination.