JUST Now:. Edmonton Oilers try to put blowout loss behind them as they look to Game 4 Joshua See more details.
JUST NOW: Edmonton Oilers Try to Put Blowout Loss Behind Them as They Look to Game 4 – Joshua Reflects on Team’s Mental Reset
After a staggering 8-1 defeat in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves staring down a steep challenge heading into Game 4 against the Florida Panthers. The loss, which tied a franchise record for the largest margin of defeat in a playoff game, has not only rattled the fan base but forced the team to search inward for answers. Despite the crushing result, Oilers forward Zach Hyman insists the team’s focus is on recovery and redemption.
Speaking with reporters, veteran player and emotional leader Zach Hyman stated, “We’ve been punched in the mouth. But the series isn’t over, and if we let one game define us, we don’t deserve to be here.”
The Oilers had shown resilience throughout the postseason, knocking off top Western Conference contenders en route to their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2006. But Game 3 was a different story. Sloppy turnovers, lack of defensive structure, and an overwhelmed Stuart Skinner in goal all contributed to the one-sided affair. Florida capitalized with precision, scoring four goals in the second period alone.
Joshua, a key contributor throughout the playoffs, shared some insight on the locker room atmosphere after the blowout: “It was quiet. Everyone’s disappointed. But we’ve been in tough spots before. The vibe is not panic—it’s more like, ‘Let’s fix it. Let’s get back to playing our hockey.’”
Head Coach Kris Knoblauch also stressed the importance of mental toughness, reminding players that the Stanley Cup Final is as much a psychological battle as it is a physical one. “We’re not reinventing the wheel. We just need to stick to our game plan and not let frustration take over,” Knoblauch told media.
As they prepare for Game 4, the Oilers will likely make adjustments on both ends of the ice. Defensive pairings may be retooled, and a potential goalie change isn’t off the table, though Knoblauch has not confirmed any lineup decisions. With the series now 3-0 in favor of Florida, Edmonton’s backs are against the wall. No team has come back from a 3-0 deficit in the Stanley Cup Final since the 1942 Toronto Maple Leafs.
Still, if there’s any belief left in the Oilers’ dressing room, it’s rooted in their ability to bounce back—a trait that’s been a hallmark of their 2025 postseason run. Game 4 will be a true test of that resolve.
Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. ET, and the Oilers know it could be their final stand.