Brad Marchand etched his name deeper into NHL playoff history with a stunning Game 5 performance that not only pushed the Florida Panthers within a win of the Stanley Cup but also saw him reach an unprecedented milestone. With two goals in Florida’s 5-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers, Marchand became the first player in NHL history to score at least five goals in two separate Stanley Cup Final series with different teams.
He had five goals in the 2011 Finals for the Boston Bruins and now has six in five games for Florida. At 37, his historic run underscores both longevity and clutch performance in the game’s biggest moments.
Marchand’s postgame reaction was as lighthearted as it was humble, joking about how his younger self might admire his looks more than his game. Still, he acknowledged the rare opportunity to be part of another championship run. With 10 goals and 10 assists in 22 playoff games this season, Marchand has been instrumental in Florida’s deep playoff run.
Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky praised him as a leader and game-changer, while the numbers further cement Marchand’s elite status, becoming just the seventh player in NHL history to score five or more goals in multiple Stanley Cup Finals.
Marchand’s Brilliance and Panthers’ Firepower Propel Florida Closer to Stanley Cup Glory
Marchand’s Game 5 goals were masterclasses in individual effort and poise under pressure. His first came from a gritty battle for a loose puck, while the second was a breathtaking move that left Edmonton’s defense in disarray.
Sam Bennett added to Florida’s dominance with his 15th playoff goal, while linemates like Eetu Luostarinen continued providing key support. Florida’s offensive strength was on full display as they scored four or more goals for the 15th time this postseason — a mark reached only by a handful of elite teams in playoff history.
Marchand Makes History as Panthers Dominate Game 5 and Move Within Reach of Stanley CupPanthers coach Paul Maurice admitted he knew Marchand was talented when they traded for him, but said he didn’t truly appreciate the winger’s mastery of “small area” plays until he coached him firsthand.
The goals in Game 5 showcased Marchand’s world-class ability to operate in tight spaces, especially under defensive pressure. This combination of skill, experience, and hockey IQ has made Marchand the heartbeat of Florida’s run, especially in moments when the team has faced adversity.
Panthers Show Depth, Poise, and Grit as They Close In on the Cup
Florida’s Game 5 win wasn’t just about Marchand — it was a full team effort on both ends of the ice. The Panthers improved to 10-3 on the road this postseason, tying the NHL record for most road wins in a single playoff year.
Their suffocating forecheck, penalty kill, and another solid showing from Bobrovsky allowed them to silence the Oilers for most of the game. Despite late pushback from Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Corey Perry, Florida held strong with insurance goals from Sam Reinhart and Luostarinen, maintaining composure that was sometimes lacking earlier in the series.
The Panthers now have the chance to secure back-to-back Stanley Cups in Game 6 at home — a feat easier said than done. They’ve already stumbled in past closeout games this postseason and in last year’s Final, where it took them until Game 7 to finish the Oilers. This time, players like Bennett say they’ve learned from past mistakes.
Florida seems more grounded, focused on staying in the moment and finishing the job. But Edmonton remains defiant, with players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins vowing not to quit. Tuesday night will test whether Florida can apply those hard-earned lessons and complete their journey.
