All updates & content from Stanley Cup Final Media Day
The 2025 Stanley Cup Final Media Day unfolded as a vibrant and highly anticipated event, setting the stage for a championship series that would captivate hockey fans worldwide. Held on June 6, 2025, at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, the day brought together players, coaches, and media personnel in a whirlwind of interviews, insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the preparations of the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers.
The arena’s concourse was transformed into a bustling media hub, with multiple interview pods set up to accommodate the numerous journalists eager to speak with the players. Each team participated in separate sessions, with half the roster engaging with the media at a time, ensuring a steady flow of content throughout the day. The Stanley Cup itself was prominently displayed, serving as a constant reminder of the ultimate prize at stake.
The Panthers, led by head coach Paul Maurice, exuded confidence and focus. Maurice reflected on the team’s journey, acknowledging the challenges faced and the growth experienced along the way. He emphasized the importance of perspective and maturity, noting that each coach brings a unique approach to the game, and his evolving outlook had been instrumental in guiding the Panthers to this point.
Captain Aleksander Barkov’s leadership was a central theme during the day. Teammates spoke highly of his maturity and dedication, highlighting how his approach to the game and his work ethic set a standard for the entire team. Defenseman Dmitry Kulikov noted that even at a young age, Barkov displayed a level of maturity that was evident in his play and leadership.
Backup goaltender Anthony Stolarz discussed the team’s defensive strategies, emphasizing the collective effort required to neutralize the Oilers’ potent offense. He highlighted the importance of team defense and the need for all players to contribute to shutting down Edmonton’s high-powered attack.
For the Oilers, Media Day was a moment to reflect on their journey and the opportunity for redemption after falling short in the previous year’s Final. Captain Connor McDavid, in his first appearance at the Stanley Cup Final, expressed a mix of excitement and focus. He acknowledged the significance of the moment but remained grounded, emphasizing that once the media obligations were complete, it would be time to focus solely on hockey.
McDavid’s comments underscored the team’s determination and readiness to seize the moment. He spoke about the challenges posed by the Panthers, particularly their defensive prowess, and the need for the Oilers to execute their game plan effectively.
The day was filled with memorable moments and insights. Players from both teams shared their thoughts on the upcoming series, their preparations, and the emotions associated with competing for the Stanley Cup. The media sessions provided fans with a rare glimpse into the personalities and mindsets of the athletes, adding depth to the on-ice narratives.
In addition to the interviews, the NHL’s “Stanley Cup Live” pregame show made its return, offering fans live coverage and analysis leading up to the Final. Hosted by Jason Demers and Alexa Landestoy, the show featured interviews with players, coaches, and special guests, providing comprehensive coverage of the day’s events and setting the stage for the games to come.
Beyond the interviews and media interactions, the day featured several community and cultural initiatives that highlighted the significance of the Stanley Cup Final. In a gesture of support, Toronto’s CN Tower was illuminated in orange and blue to honor the Edmonton Oilers, Canada’s last hope at the Cup. This rare show of inter-city solidarity underscored the national pride and anticipation surrounding the series.
Meanwhile, the Oilers introduced a heartfelt tribute to their roots by incorporating ice from their players’ hometown rinks into the surface at Rogers Place for the Stanley Cup Final. This initiative, part of the “This Is Our Ice” campaign, symbolized the unity and support of communities across Canada, turning the championship ice into a meaningful representation of home, heritage, and national pride.
As the media day concluded, the focus shifted to the upcoming Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. The Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers were set to face off in what promised to be an exciting and closely contested series. With both teams bringing unique strengths and storylines to the ice, the stage was set for a championship series that would captivate hockey fans and add another chapter to the storied history of the Stanley Cup.
The 2025 Stanley Cup Final Media Day not only provided a platform for players and coaches to share their thoughts and preparations but also showcased the passion, dedication, and community spirit that make hockey a beloved sport. As the series unfolded, the events of Media Day served as a reminder of the hard work and commitment that go into reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
Florida Panthers emerged victorious, clinching the Stanley Cup in a thrilling Game 7. The series was marked by intense competition, remarkable performances, and unforgettable moments, solidifying the 2025 Final as one of the most memorable in recent history.
