Ep 3. May 31, 1987: Philadelphia Flyers vs. Edmonton Oilers - Stanley Cup Final Game 7
- May 31, 1987
As a virtual time machine, NHL Franchise Focus takes us back to May 31, 1987, for one of the most epic games in NHL history. In the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers faced off against the Philadelphia Flyers in a decisive Game 7 that would determine the championship. In this episode, we get an in-depth look at the players, coaches, and strategy that led up to this pivotal game.
The Oilers were the defending champions, having won the Cup the previous year, and were led by a powerhouse lineup that included Wayne Gretzky, Paul Coffey, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. The Flyers, on the other hand, were hungry for their first Cup victory since 1975, and had battled their way through the playoffs with a mix of grit and determination.
With both teams evenly matched in terms of talent and determination, the game was sure to be a nail-biter. Through interviews with the players and coaches, we get a sense of the tension and excitement that surrounded the game as the teams prepared to take the ice. We see the locker room speeches, the pre-game rituals, and the nervous energy that built as the puck drop approached.
As the game gets underway, we see both teams trading blows in a fast-paced, hard-hitting contest. The Flyers jump out to an early lead, but the Oilers rally to tie the game in the second period. The tension builds as both teams fight for every inch of ice.
Throughout the game, we get a sense of the strategy and tactics employed by each team. We see the Oilers' high-powered offense, with Gretzky and Kurri leading the charge, and the Flyers' physical defense, with Tim Kerr and Brad Marsh playing key roles. We also see the goaltending heroics of Grant Fuhr for the Oilers and Ron Hextall for the Flyers, as both netminders make save after save to keep their teams in the game.
As the clock winds down and the game remains tied, the tension in the arena is palpable. Fans on both sides are on the edge of their seats, hoping their team can push through for the win. With just minutes left in regulation, the Oilers finally break through, scoring a late goal to take the lead. The Flyers mount a desperate comeback effort, but Fuhr and the Oilers defense hold strong, securing the victory and the Stanley Cup.
In the aftermath of the game, we see the elation of the Oilers players and fans as they celebrate their victory. We also see the disappointment of the Flyers, who came so close but ultimately fell short. Through it all, we get a sense of the excitement, drama, and emotion that make the Stanley Cup Playoffs such a captivating spectacle.
Overall, NHL Franchise Focus: Edmonton Oilers season 1 episode 3 offers a thrilling look at one of the most exciting games in NHL history. Through interviews, analysis, and on-ice footage, we get a sense of the drama and tension that surrounded the 1987 Stanley Cup Final, and the players and teams who fought so hard to take home hockey's ultimate prize.