The stage is set for a compelling clash as the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers face off in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. This marks only the fifth time since the NHL's expansion in 1967-68 that the same two teams have met in back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals. With the Panthers having clinched their first-ever Stanley Cup victory against the Oilers in a thrilling seven-game series last year, this rematch carries significant weight. Let's revisit the four most recent Stanley Cup Final rematches that have led us to this highly anticipated showdown.

Detroit Red Wings vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (2008-2009)

The most recent instance before this year of a Stanley Cup Final rematch occurred between the Detroit Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2008 and 2009. In 2008, the Red Wings, boasting a veteran-laden roster and the President's Trophy, defeated a young Penguins team led by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in six games. Detroit dominated early, taking a 2-0 series lead and ultimately proving too strong for Pittsburgh. However, the Penguins, fueled by the experience gained, returned with a vengeance in 2009. Despite falling behind 2-0 once again in the series, they battled back, forcing a Game 7 which they won 2-1, with an iconic save by Marc-Andre Fleury in the final seconds, securing their Stanley Cup title. This rematch showcased the growth of Pittsburgh's young core and their determination to overcome adversity.

New York Islanders vs. Edmonton Oilers (1983-1984)

Before the Penguins and Red Wings, the New York Islanders and Edmonton Oilers clashed in the 1983 and 1984 Stanley Cup Finals. In 1983, the Islanders, then a dynasty in their own right, swept a young Oilers team led by Wayne Gretzky. This victory marked the Islanders' fourth consecutive Stanley Cup win, solidifying their place in NHL history. However, the Oilers, with their explosive offense and rising stars, learned from their defeat and came back stronger in 1984. Edmonton dethroned the Islanders in five games, marking the beginning of their own dynasty and the passing of the torch in the NHL.

Montreal Canadiens vs. Boston Bruins (1977-1978)

The Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins faced off in back-to-back finals in 1977 and 1978. The Canadiens were at the peak of their dominance, and the Bruins were in a transitional period. Montreal swept Boston in 1977 and won in six games in 1978.

Montreal Canadiens vs. St. Louis Blues (1968-1969)

In 1968 and 1969, the Montreal Canadiens faced off against the St. Louis Blues, winning both series in four games. The Blues were a fledgling expansion team, and the Canadiens were too dominant.

As the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers prepare to write the next chapter in Stanley Cup Final rematches, the weight of history and the desire for revenge will undoubtedly add extra fuel to this already intense rivalry.