Stanley Cup Final: Panthers-Oilers Game 1 grades, takeaways

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Before we go any further, maybe it's fair to establish some ground rules for how to assess this particular Stanley Cup final.

Specifically, unless the Edmonton Oilers or Florida Panthers gain such a large lead to put the game out of reach, everything could be decided within the final 10 minutes of regulation or whenever the game-winning goal in overtime (or even double overtime) is scored.

OK. Now that we're all on the same page, here's a look at how the Oilers took Game 1 with a 4-3 overtime win, and what it all means going forward for both parties ahead of Game 2.

Edmonton Oilers

Grade: B

Winning the third period in the manner in which the Oilers did was crucial. Not only…