Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers delivered a rollercoaster of emotions and unforgettable moments at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The Oilers staged a remarkable comeback, overturning a three-goal deficit in the first period to clinch a thrilling 5-4 victory in overtime, leveling the series at 2-2 and setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown as the series heads back to Edmonton.
The atmosphere inside the arena was electric, amplified not only by the nail-biting action on the ice but also by the star-studded crowd in attendance. Among the fans was the power couple of the sports and entertainment world: pop superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. The pair, who began their high-profile romance in 2023, were spotted holding hands as they made their way to a suite at the arena, drawing as much attention off the ice as the game did on it.
Kelce, a Super Bowl champion and avid hockey fan, alongside Swift, a 14-time Grammy Award winner known for her love of major sporting events, have made a habit of appearing at big games, including the last two Super Bowls. Their presence at Game 4 was no exception and was eagerly anticipated by fans and media alike. Rumors swirled ahead of the game, fueled by a helicopter landing near the arena and restricted access to VIP entrances and media elevators during pregame warmups, signaling that something special was afoot.
As the puck dropped at 8:00 p.m. ET, broadcast live on TNT and truTV and streamed on Sling, the Panthers looked to capitalize on their home-ice advantage and extend their series lead to 3-1. They had come off a dominant 6-1 victory in Game 3, where six different Panthers players found the back of the net, including standout performances from Sam Reinhart, Evan Rodrigues, and Carter Verhaeghe, each recording at least one goal and one assist. The Oilers, meanwhile, faced the daunting task of bouncing back after their superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl were held scoreless for only the second time this postseason.
The game began with a shocking early surge by the Panthers, who raced to a three-goal lead in the first period, seemingly putting the Oilers on the ropes. However, Edmonton’s resilience shone through as they mounted a spirited comeback, clawing back into the game with relentless pressure and skillful play. The tension escalated with every shift, culminating in an overtime period that had fans on the edge of their seats.
In overtime, the Oilers sealed their comeback with a decisive goal that sent the crowd into a frenzy and tied the series at two games apiece. NHL.com Editor-in-Chief Bill Price was on hand inside the arena, capturing the sights, sounds, and highlights as the drama unfolded live, giving fans an immersive experience of this pivotal moment in the Stanley Cup Final.
Adding to the spectacle was the presence of other notable sports figures, including former Miami Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor and hockey legend Jaromir Jagr, who were also spotted enjoying the high-stakes showdown. Earlier in the week, Miami Heat captain Bam Adebayo and former captain Udonis Haslem had contributed to the pregame energy by banging the drum, highlighting the crossover appeal and wide interest in the series.
On social media, the arrival of Swift and Kelce was met with a mix of excitement and curiosity. Sportsnet’s X account playfully dubbed the duo "musical and sporting royalty," underscoring their unique crossover appeal. Observers noted that their attire hinted at support for the Panthers, though some speculated they might simply be sporting Kansas City Chiefs colors, reflecting Kelce’s NFL roots. Despite some predictable online backlash, many hockey fans expressed genuine happiness to see Swift’s involvement, emphasizing the growing intersection between sports and pop culture.
Swift’s recent announcement about regaining control over her entire music catalog added another layer to her public narrative, showcasing her determination and business acumen off the stage. Her presence at the Stanley Cup Final further cements her status as a cultural icon who transcends entertainment sectors.
Looking ahead, the series now heads back to Edmonton for Game 5 on Saturday, June 14, with the puck dropping at 8 p.m. ET. The stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams vie for a crucial advantage in what has become one of the most compelling Stanley Cup Finals in recent memory. Fans can catch the live broadcast on TNT and truTV or stream the action via Sling, ensuring no one misses a moment of this evolving hockey saga.
With the series tied and momentum swinging wildly, the coming games promise more drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. The blend of elite athleticism on the ice and star power in the stands has made this Stanley Cup Final a must-watch event, captivating audiences far beyond traditional hockey circles. As the Oilers and Panthers battle for supremacy, the world watches eagerly, knowing that every shift could tilt the balance in this epic quest for hockey’s ultimate prize.
