The Edmonton Oilers enjoyed one of their greatest playoff runs last season. The franchise battled through multiple series and reached the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in nearly two decades. However, the dream season ended in heartbreak with defeat at the hands of the Florida Panthers.
The loss stung even more when Florida rubbed salt in the wound during their championship celebration. The Panthers played “Pink Pony Club” as part of their post-game festivities, mocking Edmonton’s celebration song from throughout their playoff run.
While the act clearly bothered the Oilers organization, they finally get their chance for revenge Saturday when Florida visits Rogers Place.
How Did NHL Fans React to the Oilers’ Frustration with Florida’s Championship Celebration?
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman revealed during the 32 Thoughts podcast that Edmonton remains upset about how Florida celebrated their championship victory. The comments sparked immediate reaction across social media.
“The Oilers as an organization were not happy with some of the post-celebration commentary from the Panthers. The Panthers really rubbed that second one in,” Friedman reported. One fan immediately trolled the Oilers for their sensitivity.
“Man, that’s crazy. Alexa, play Pink Pony Club,” they posted, suggesting Edmonton should simply get over the loss. Others defended Florida’s right to celebrate however they wanted.
“Championship teams always celebrate with fans and love to throw trash talk in the moment. If others don’t like it, then BEAT them,” one supporter wrote.
Another fan invoked the classic sports adage. “Hmmm, what’s that saying… something about ‘to the victor go the spoils’? Right… The Panthers won (TWO TIMES). They can do whatever they want.” Some pointed out the perceived hypocrisy in Edmonton’s complaints.
The Oilers reportedly made Stanley Cup celebration dinner plans in Florida after Game 4, assuming they’d close out the series. “Didn’t the Oilers make Cup Win Celebration dinner plans in Florida after Game 4? Kinda put the cart before the horse on that one,” a fan noted.
One supporter referenced Panthers forward Sam Bennett, who became a villain to Oilers fans during the series. “I guess they’re waiting for an apology… hey Sam Bennett, what do you say to that?” they joked.
The most cutting response questioned Edmonton’s organizational maturity. “‘They beat us twice and acted like it!’ Lmao, not a serious organization,” a fan mocked, suggesting the Oilers should focus on winning rather than complaining about celebrations.
Saturday’s rematch carries extra meaning given the context. Edmonton sits at 9-9-5 and desperately needs wins to salvage its disappointing season. Florida enters at 11-8-1 and looks poised to defend their championship.
Whether the Oilers channel their frustration into a dominant performance or allow the emotional baggage to distract them remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the hockey world will be watching closely to see if Edmonton backs up its displeasure with results on the ice.