A.J. Greer Set to Make Stanley Cup Final Debut for Panthers in Game 3

Vernon, Canada - The anticipation is palpable as the Florida Panthers prepare to dive into Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers. A key player, A.J. Greer, will be making his return after missing the first two games due to injury, a confirmation that came straight from head coach Paul Maurice. Greer is set to take over on the fourth line, stepping in for Jesper Boqvist, marking his first-ever appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. Excitement radiates from the young player, though he’s wisely focusing on the task at hand rather than the monumental stage he’s about to step onto. As he puts it, „I’m just excited to play the game.“

This will be a momentous occasion for Greer, who has fought his way back into form after experiencing a challenging chapter in his career. Just four years ago, he was on the verge of giving up on his NHL dream while toiling in the minors. Greer was picked in the second round by Colorado in 2015 and played 37 games for the Avalanche before his journey took him to the New Jersey Devils in a trade that also involved prominent names like Kyle Palmieri and Travis Zajac. His resilience and adaptability have paid off, showcasing his commitment to honing his skills and changing his playing style as advised by his agent.

Rallying the Team

In the thick of a fierce playoff battle, Greer’s contributions this season have been significant. Participating in 12 playoff games so far, he has managed to score two goals and three assists, adding depth and physicality to the Panthers’ lineup. His teammate Evan Rodrigues has praised Greer’s knack for shifting game momentum and his formidable presence on the ice. Coach Maurice has also heaped praise on Greer, highlighting his self-awareness, which has made him a valuable asset as the team pursues their championship dream.

While Greer had to miss Game 4 against the Carolina Hurricanes earlier in the playoffs due to an undisclosed injury, he quickly returned for Game 5 and now looks to help his team capitalize on their recent success. The Panthers clinched a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory in Game 2 against the Oilers, leveling the series at 1-1, which adds to the intensity as the teams head into the next match.

The Stanley Cup Stage

The Stanley Cup itself represents the pinnacle of success in hockey — the oldest trophy in North American professional sports. This season’s matchup features two fierce competitors, the Panthers and the Oilers, both aiming for glory. The history of the Stanley Cup Final is rich, dating back to its first faceoff in 1918 when the Toronto Arenas clinched the title against the Montreal Canadiens. Fast forward to 2025, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for the Florida Panthers as they strive for their first title in franchise history.

In context, the exhibition of passion and resilience we see from Greer is a microcosm of what the Stanley Cup represents: heart, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Hockey aficionados won’t want to miss this historic clash at 8 p.m. ET, live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, as the Panthers take one step closer to etching their name in the storied annals of the NHL.

For those keen on the statistics surrounding this prestigious tournament, the Stanley Cup Final has evolved into a best-of-seven series since 1939, with some franchises like the Montreal Canadiens proving to be powerhouses throughout its history. So as the Panthers gear up, so does the world of hockey — and all eyes will be watching Greer step onto the ice, ready to make a difference in the quest for the coveted prize.