EDMONTON, Alberta — The Stanley Cup Final features seasoned veterans Brad Marchand and Corey Perry, the two oldest players participating in the series. Marchand recently turned 37, while Perry is 40, yet both proved crucial in Game 2 on Friday night, emphasizing that age is just a number on the ice. Their combined efforts accounted for a third of the goals, with Marchand securing the win for the Florida Panthers in double overtime after Perry kept the Edmonton Oilers’ hopes alive with a historic tying goal in the dwindling seconds of regulation.
Reflecting on Marchand’s performance, teammate Seth Jones jokingly questioned his age. “I’m going to tell him you said that,” Jones said. “He’s a dog, a gamer, and a fierce competitor. He injects energy on and off the ice.”
The source of Marchand’s vitality, playing 22 crucial minutes, is a blend of his own determination and influence from younger teammates like Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen. Lundell, who assisted Marchand’s breakaway goals, commented, “He enjoys spending time with us. His fitness is remarkable, and he’s seemingly unstoppable.”
Now in his 16th NHL season and 13th playoff appearance—and his first away from the Boston Bruins—Marchand continues to defy expectations. This marks his fourth time in the finals, a full 14 years since he last faced a Canadian team, the Vancouver Canucks, leading Boston to cup victory. That triumph reignited the Canadian title drought.
Significantly, Marchand’s two goals fell on the anniversary of his iconic short-handed goal against Roberto Luongo in the 2011 finals. Luongo, currently serving in the Panthers’ front office, expressed admiration on social media, calling Marchand his “favorite player of all time.” Marchand responded warmly, “Lu is awesome. Happy to be on his team.”
Perry’s hockey journey stretches back even further, notably when he helped Anaheim defeat Ottawa in 2007. Competing for the Cup for the sixth time and the fourth instance in five years, Perry remains pivotal. His clutch tying goal with just 17.8 seconds remaining in the third period demonstrated his enduring talent.
“Determination, finding the puck, and knowing how to score—that’s Corey Perry,” noted Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch. “Playoff goals are challenging, but he’s exceptional at seizing opportunities around the net.”
Observers might be surprised by Marchand and Perry’s performances at their ages, but not seasoned coach Paul Maurice. He acknowledges post-lockout rule changes and advancements in sports science that now enable athletes to excel into their late 30s and 40s. “We’re entering an era where player care is prioritized,” Maurice explained, “from meals to travel—investments are made to prolong careers. These players, young and old alike, benefit greatly.”
Marchand maintains his performance with a personal routine, often involving pre-overtime stationary biking to keep his legs agile. “It’s about staying prepared,” Marchand said. “Got to keep feeling good.”
The Panthers, rejuvenated by the acquisition of Marchand from Boston, feel poised for victory. His goals in Game 2 have been game-changers in their playoff march. Teammate Matthew Tkachuk praised Marchand, “Unreal player, unreal competitor…at this rate, he could keep playing till he’s 47.”
As this unique Stanley Cup Final unfolds, the contributions of these veteran players prove experience and skill can shine, irrespective of age. The Panthers and Oilers continue to battle as hockey fans eagerly await the next thrilling game in this exciting series.