🏒 Brad Marchand’s Masterclass Powers Florida Panthers to Game 5 Win in 2025 Stanley Cup Final
Brad Marchand proved once again why he’s a Stanley Cup legend. With two stunning goals — including a jaw-dropping solo effort — he led the Florida Panthers to a 5-2 Game 5 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, pushing Florida to a 3-2 series lead in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final.
The win places Florida just one step away from back-to-back championships, with the chance to clinch the Stanley Cup at home in Game 6 on Tuesday at Amerant Bank Arena.
🎯 Brad Marchand’s Goal Leaves NHL World Speechless
Marchand’s second goal of the night wasn’t just important — it was spectacular.
With the Panthers up 2-0 in the third period, Marchand intercepted a pass near center ice, deked his way around defenseman Jake Walman, then slipped a backhand through goalie Calvin Pickard’s legs in a play reminiscent of Connor McDavid’s magic. The goal drew audible reactions from teammates and fans alike.
“Those are the goals you look up on YouTube as a kid,” said teammate Anton Lundell.
🧠 The Breakdown: How Marchand Created the Viral Goal
- Interception: Luostarinen deflects a pass near the blue line.
- Transition: Marchand races down the left wing, drawing attention.
- Skill Move: He slips inside Walman with a slick toe drag.
- Finish: Backhand five-hole through Pickard at full speed.
The entire sequence lasted just 10 seconds but will live on in highlight reels for years.
🥅 Game 5 Summary: Panthers 5, Oilers 2
| Period | Score |
|---|---|
| 1st | FLA 1 – EDM 0 (Marchand) |
| 2nd | FLA 2 – EDM 0 |
| 3rd | FLA 3 – EDM 0 (Marchand again) |
| Final | FLA 5 – EDM 2 |
Marchand’s Goals:
- Goal 1 (9:12, 1st period) – Off a faceoff win, Marchand beats Mattias Ekholm for the opening score.
- Goal 2 (5:02, 3rd period) – The now-viral breakaway and backhand finish.
📊 Marchand’s Stanley Cup Final Stats & Records
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Goals in 2025 Cup Final | 6 |
| Career Game-Winning Goals (Playoffs) | 16 (T-10th in NHL History) |
| Stanley Cup Final Goals (Career) | 12 (7th in expansion era) |
| Total Playoff Games Played | 179 |
He joins elite company like Mario Lemieux, Wayne Gretzky, and Jaromir Jagr in postseason scoring feats.
🗣️ Reaction from Panthers & Opponents
Matthew Tkachuk:
“Oh my God. Oh my God, oh my God…” — caught mic’d up after the goal, hugging teammates in disbelief.
Paul Maurice (Head Coach):
“What he can do in tight spaces — under pressure — it’s world class. That’s the difference.”
Sam Bennett:
“I don’t know how he did that… I need to study that clip.”
Liberty Coach Sandy Brondello:
“They made shots and really punished us. They executed well.”
🕹️ A Legacy in the Making: Marchand’s Historical Comparisons
Brad Marchand’s Game 5 performance has placed him firmly among the greatest playoff performers of the modern era. He now has:
- Multiple Stanley Cup Final series with 5+ goals
- More Final goals than legends like Sidney Crosby
- An unmatched clutch presence late in series
📆 What’s Next: Game 6 Details
| Matchup | Florida Panthers vs. Edmonton Oilers |
|---|---|
| Game 6 Date | Tuesday, June 18, 2025 |
| Venue | Amerant Bank Arena, Florida |
| Cup Ceremony? | If Panthers win, they clinch the Cup |
❓ FAQs About Brad Marchand and Game 5
Q1: How many Stanley Cups has Brad Marchand won?
🔹 One with Boston (2011); looking for second with Florida in 2025.
Q2: Is Marchand the oldest player on the Panthers?
🔹 Yes, at 37, he brings invaluable playoff experience (179 games).
Q3: How many goals has Marchand scored in the 2025 playoffs?
🔹 10+ total; 6 in the Final alone.
Q4: Will Marchand win the Conn Smythe Trophy?
🔹 If Panthers win the Cup, he’s a top contender.
✅ Conclusion: Brad Marchand Is the Moment
Game 5 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final will be remembered for Brad Marchand’s brilliance. His age-defying speed, finesse, and leadership have lifted Florida to the brink of another championship. With momentum on their side, the Panthers are ready to bring the Cup home in Game 6 — and Marchand may just be the one to close the deal.
