Oilers lose control of the playoff watch party before Game 7 begins

The excitement has already reached a fever pitch outside Rogers Place, where the crowd has started to spill onto the streets, unable to be contained any longer.

The orderly lines from earlier in the day are now a thing of the past, with only two hours remaining until puck drop. The swelling numbers and the overwhelming enthusiasm have transformed the area into a festive chaos, a stark contrast to the more structured gatherings of previous games.

This unbridled enthusiasm isn't confined to Edmonton alone. The Oilers' fervor has a far-reaching impact, with numerous fans making the journey to Florida.

Ferrying scores of Oilers supporters eager to witness history in the making. Even the vicinity around the arena in Florida is teeming with Oilers jerseys, as over 200 friends and family members have been flown in to potentially celebrate a monumental win.

This night could very well be the defining moment of the Connor McDavid era. As the city holds its breath, the potential victory tonight could spark a celebration that might just continue throughout the week. However, even if tonight does not end in victory, the sentiment remains optimistic. "If they don't win, nobody doubts that this team will be back again - maybe even next year," reflects the enduring spirit of both the team and its supporters.

The narrative of tonight's game is not just about winning or losing; it's about the passion of a city and its hockey team, a narrative beautifully captured by Kent Morrison's reports from the ground. As Edmonton waits with bated breath, the stage is set for what could be a historic evening.