Controversial video replay costs Edmonton Oilers two goals to start Stanley Cup Final
Things started great for the Edmonton Oilers in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, but a controversial call quickly turned the tables.
Leon Draisaitl opened the scoring just over a minute in, sending Rogers Place into a frenzy. Yet, it was an old enemy in Sam Bennett who took the air out of the arena, as he tipped in an equalizer after bumping into Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner.
The Edmonton native immediately protested that he was interfered with, and the Oilers agreed, challenging the goal. After a very short review, the officials determined that Bennett was pushed into Skinner and upheld the goal.
On replay, there is some contact, as Bennett tripped over Brett Kulak’s skate and into Skinner.
After a Coaches Challenge, Carter Verhaeghe's goal stands and the Panthers head to the power play pic.twitter.com/iDH1eJpNeb
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 5, 2025
With the game tied, the Oilers were given a minor penalty for the failed challenge. Edmonton fought off the first half of the penalty, but the Panthers eventually found a way. It was Nate Schmidt finding a wide-open Brad Marchand.
In less than two minutes, the Oilers’ 1-0 lead evaporated into a 2-1 deficit.
Welcome back to the #StanleyCup Final, Brad Marchand 🫡 pic.twitter.com/tBNA8VK3dx
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 5, 2025