Panthers' Sam Reinhart makes his feelings known on home-ice advantage amid Stanley Cup Finals against Oilers

Sam Reinhart isn’t worried about playing at home or on the road during the Stanley Cup Final. The Florida Panthers have shown they can win away from home. Their double-overtime win in Game 2 against the Edmonton Oilers was their 24th road win in the last three postseasons - the most of any NHL team in that time.

When asked about the difference, Sam Reinhart said there isn’t much beyond sleeping in his bed and getting a home-cooked meal.

"Might use you the crowd a little bit. ... Once that puck drops, it's going to be a battle regardless of where you are." Reinhart told reporters, according to a post from NHL insider Jameson Olive.

They now have a 24–11 road record over the last three postseasons. On the road, they average 3.57 goals per game and allow 3.00 goals. Their power play is working at 26.3%, and their penalty kill is at 81.9%. These numbers demonstrate their consistency and effectiveness away from home.

In Game 2, Brad Marchand scored two goals, including the winner in double overtime. Sam Bennett, Seth Jones and Dmitry Kulikov also scored. Sergei Bobrovsky made 42 saves, and he stayed calm and kept the Panthers in the game.

Sam Reinhart’s performance in the playoffs has dropped

Sam Reinhart’s playoff performance has raised questions. After scoring 57 goals last regular season and 10 in last year’s playoffs, he has only four goals in 17 games this postseason. He hasn’t scored since Game 7 of Round 2 and missed a key breakaway in Game 2's first overtime. His expected goals and shot volume are both down.

One possible reason is an injury from a hard knee-on-knee hit by Carolina’s Sebastian Aho in the Eastern Conference Final. Since then, Reinhart hasn’t returned to his usual scoring area in the slot.

That spot, often used in the Panthers’ power play, was where he scored many of his goals last season. It now looks like Carter Verhaeghe has taken over that role.

Sam Reinhart led the Panthers with 39 goals and 81 points in the regular season. His reduced production may stem from fewer shots and a drop in shooting percentage. Whether it’s the injury, a shift in role or a bit of bad luck, the Panthers may need Reinhart to find his scoring touch again. His return to form could play a big role as the Final continues in Florida.