Tonight is Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final, and the Edmonton Oilers are on an exhilarating run. After losing the series’ first three games, they’ve fought back with back-to-back wins. Some might even argue that the Oilers outplayed the Florida Panthers in two of the three initial losses and deserved to win, but that’s not always how hockey works.
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Hockey is a funny game. Sometimes, the team that plays the best doesn’t win, and a slight mistake or a lucky bounce can quickly change the outcome. As Oilers fans anticipate tonight’s game, the truth is, we don’t know what will happen. Regardless of the outcome, it won’t diminish their incredible season, even in the face of a potentially heart-breaking loss for Oilers fans.
Time for Oilers Fans to Celebrate Their Incredible Season
This post is written a 76-year-old, long-time Oilers fan. It is dedicated to celebrating the Oilers’ remarkable journey this season. They’ve shown heart, skill, and an unyielding spirit. They’ve made their fans proud. Whatever happens tonight, the Oilers’ 2023-2024 season has been spectacular.
In today’s high-stakes professional sports culture, there’s often an overemphasis on winning it all. The narrative often leads to a pervasive “If you ain’t first, you’re last” mentality. This mindset is understandable. As fans, we care and are disappointed. However, if we go there, it overshadows the team’s remarkable achievements throughout the season.
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Think about the Oilers, for example. They’ve had a phenomenal season, showcasing pushback, skill, intelligence, and determination. Reaching as far as they have in the playoffs is no small feat and deserves recognition and celebration, regardless of the outcome. That goes for the Panthers, as well. But this postseason, I’d love to see a Canadian team win.
Unfortunately, Losses Can Quickly Turn to Blame
Unfortunately, for whatever team loses the Stanley Cup Final, the narrative quickly shifts from praise to critique. Should the Oilers lose, instead of celebrating the team’s journey and the joy they’ve brought their fans, the media will focus on the team’s perceived failures.
Call me naive if you wish. However, I am suggesting it’s time to change the script….
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