Henrik Lundqvist, the legendary New York Rangers goaltender, has been a standout figure in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, particularly during Game 2 between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers. As a TNT analyst, Lundqvist’s sharp commentary and goaltending expertise have elevated the viewing experience for fans glued to the intense double-overtime battle on June 6, 2025. With the game showcasing high-stakes drama, Lundqvist’s insights into the goaltenders’ performances and critical calls have sparked conversations both in the broadcast booth and on social media. This blog dives into his role in Game 2 coverage, his analysis of the matchup, and his lasting influence on hockey.
Henrik Lundqvist’s Take on Game 2’s Goaltending Duel
Game 2 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final was a nail-biter, with the score tied 4-4 after Corey Perry’s historic game-tying goal with just 17.8 seconds left in regulation. Henrik Lundqvist, drawing from his 15-year NHL career, provided keen observations on the goaltending battle between Edmonton’s Stuart Skinner and Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky. He praised Skinner’s resilience, noting how the Oilers’ netminder bounced back after allowing three early goals in Game 1 to make crucial saves in double overtime. Lundqvist highlighted Bobrovsky’s ability to face a barrage of shots, stopping 42 in Game 1 and continuing his strong play in Game 2 despite Perry’s late equalizer. His analysis underscored the mental toughness required in such high-pressure moments, drawing parallels to his own playoff experiences.
| Game 2 Goaltending Stats (As of Double Overtime) |
|---|
| Stuart Skinner (EDM): 23+ saves, 4 goals allowed |
| Sergei Bobrovsky (FLA): 30+ saves, 4 goals allowed |
Lundqvist’s Commentary on Controversial Calls
Henrik Lundqvist didn’t shy away from weighing in on a controversial moment in Game 2. A missed too-many-men call on the Panthers sparked debate, and Lundqvist, known for his candor, called it a “bad call” on air, a sentiment echoed by fans on social media. One post on X noted, “Even Henrik Lundqvist said it was a bad call,” reflecting the frustration of some viewers. His willingness to critique officiating while breaking down its impact on the game’s flow added depth to TNT’s coverage. Lundqvist’s perspective, shaped by years facing similar situations as a player, resonated with fans who appreciated his honesty in a game where every call matters.
A Voice of Experience in the Broadcast Booth
Lundqvist’s transition from goaltender to analyst has been seamless, and Game 2 showcased why. His ability to dissect plays, like Gustav Forsling’s sprawling save to deny Evander Kane a scoring chance, brought clarity to the chaos of overtime. He also highlighted Connor McDavid’s 31:41 of ice time, noting how the Oilers’ star’s endurance mirrored his own marathon performances. Lundqvist’s chemistry with TNT’s crew, including Wayne Gretzky, made the broadcast engaging, with fans on X praising his ability to explain goaltending nuances without losing the casual viewer. His comment that both goalies were “playing their butts off” despite eight goals scored captured the paradox of a high-scoring, well-goaltended game.
Henrik Lundqvist’s Broader Impact in 2025
Beyond Game 2, Henrik Lundqvist’s presence in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final underscores his enduring influence. Fresh off his IIHF Hall of Fame induction in May 2025 for his 2006 Olympic gold and 2017 World Championship heroics, Lundqvist brings unmatched credibility to his analysis. His 459 NHL wins and 2012 Vezina Trophy give weight to his commentary, especially when discussing Skinner and Bobrovsky’s pressure-packed performances. Off the air, Lundqvist’s foundation continues to advocate for heart health, inspired by his 2021 retirement due to pericarditis. His podcast, Club30 with Henrik Lundqvist, also keeps him connected to fans, blending hockey talk with cultural insights.
Why Lundqvist’s Voice Resonates in Game 2
As Game 2 stretched into double overtime, Lundqvist’s commentary became a guiding light for viewers. His focus on fatigue—evidenced by 11 icings in the first overtime—showed his knack for spotting subtle game-changers. He noted how faceoffs after icings were critical, a point proven as both teams battled for offensive-zone draws. Lundqvist’s praise for Skinner’s composure after a rocky Game 1 start mirrored his own career, where he often rebounded from tough losses. His ability to humanize the players, like calling out Aaron Ekblad’s pain after taking a shot to the hand, added an emotional layer to the broadcast.
A Legacy That Elevates the Stanley Cup Final
Henrik Lundqvist’s role in Game 2 coverage proves he’s more than a former player—he’s a hockey ambassador. His insights into the Oilers-Panthers clash, from goaltending heroics to controversial calls, have made him a fan favorite. As the series progresses, his analysis will continue to shape how fans understand this rematch of the 2024 Final. Whether he’s breaking down a save or calling out a missed penalty, Lundqvist’s voice carries the weight of a Hall of Famer who’s been in the crease under pressure.
Catch Henrik Lundqvist’s next broadcast on TNT for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final on June 9, 2025, and share your thoughts on his Game 2 takes in the comments below!