NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 06/17/2025

Game 6 has all the makings of a tighter, more defensive contest as the Stanley Cup is on the line in Florida tonight.

While the Over has surprisingly cashed in all five games of this series so far, elimination games typically see more conservative play and heightened defensive focus.

The Oilers, facing elimination, will likely emphasize defensive structure to avoid the high-risk plays that cost them in Game 5's 5-2 loss.

Florida's championship experience should lead to a more measured approach with the Cup in the building, focusing on protecting leads rather than pushing for unnecessary offense.

Both teams were in this exact situation last season, so nerves shouldn't be a factor, but we can expect increased physicality and defensive intensity that should keep the total under 6.5.

The Panthers have seized control of this series and appear poised to close it out on home ice in Game 6.

Florida's offense has been overwhelming, scoring 23 goals in the series and 15 in just the last three games, showing they can consistently find ways to beat Edmonton's goaltending.

Defensively, the Panthers should limit Edmonton's attack with Seth Jones and Gustav Forsling creating turnovers while Sergei Bobrovsky continues his solid play between the pipes.

The championship experience from last year gives Florida a mental edge, especially with the crowd behind them at Amerant Bank Arena.

With their backs against the wall, Edmonton will push hard, but Florida's complete team approach and home ice advantage make them the smart play.

Despite the stakes of Game 6, both offenses have dominated this Stanley Cup Final with a combined 39 goals through five games.

Edmonton's dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will be desperate to extend their season, likely generating high-danger scoring chances throughout the game.

Florida's offense has been clicking at an elite level, with Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Sam Reinhart creating consistent offensive zone pressure and quality scoring opportunities.

The Panthers' defensemen, particularly Seth Jones and Nate Schmidt, have been effective at generating offense from the point, adding another dimension to their attack.

With Edmonton playing desperate hockey and Florida's offense firing on all cylinders, we should see another high-scoring affair that pushes past the 6.5 total.