Kane unexpectedly knocks Matthew Tkachuk down cold in front of the referee

The Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers initiated the Stanley Cup Final with a battle that, although not brimming with aggression, had its share of controversial hits.

One incident that particularly stands out involved Evander Kane of the Oilers, known for his robust style. Kane delivered a sharp forearm shiver directly to Matthew Tkachuk's face as he headed towards the bench.

This moment of tension occurred just feet away from an official, yet surprisingly, no penalty was called. It's possible that Tkachuk's own notoriety for aggressive play influenced the non-call, despite Kane's history of similar actions.

This altercation might stem from a lingering rivalry from Tkachuk's days with the Calgary Flames, hinting at more clashes between these two as the series progresses.

Another notable moment was when Adam Henrique hit Oliver Ekman-Larsson from behind, causing him to crash face-first into the boards. This incident led to Ekman-Larsson briefly exiting the game to tend to a facial cut. Again, no penalties were awarded to the Oilers, which was astonishing to many, given the nature of the hit.

Despite these incidents, the Oilers showcased a significant physical presence, dispelling concerns about their ability to match the Panthers' intensity. Interestingly, the Oilers managed to secure more powerplay opportunities than the Panthers, a testament to their aggressive gameplay. However, they were continually thwarted by an exceptional performance from Sergei Bobrovsky, the Panthers' goaltender.

As the series progresses, the Oilers' sustained physicality and strategic play suggest they are not only contenders but poised to make a significant comeback. Last night's game sets the tone for what promises to be an electrifying series, with both teams having much to prove.