DALLAS — The Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars are set to face off again in the Western Conference Final, an exact rematch of last year`s series, which the Oilers won in six games.
What`s the primary area where the Stars need to improve to change the outcome this time?
“Don’t go 0-for-14 on the power play,” stated Stars head coach Pete DeBoer. “Special teams truly decided the series.”
DeBoer reflected on the previous year`s matchup: “Looking back at last year’s series, I don’t think we could have played a better Game 6, the elimination game in Edmonton. They still found a way to win that game; they found a way to score crucial, timely goals.”
In Game 6 of the previous series, the Oilers scored two power-play goals early in the first period and maintained their lead. Dallas outshot Edmonton significantly, 34-10, but went scoreless on their three power-play opportunities. Stuart Skinner delivered a memorable performance in goal for the Oilers in that game.
Oilers forward Zach Hyman also recalled Skinner`s strong series and the importance of special teams. He noted that winning series isn`t about one single factor but a combination of elements that contribute to success.
Heading into Round 3 this year, the Oilers possess a power play operating at 25.6 percent overall in the playoffs, but they have struggled on the road, going 0 for 14.
Conversely, Dallas boasts one of the league`s top penalty kills in the postseason (86.1 percent), ranking behind only Florida and Carolina. Edmonton`s penalty kill has been less effective, sitting at 66.7 percent.
DeBoer also highlighted a specific moment from last year`s Game 6: Connor McDavid`s power-play goal where he beat multiple defenders before scoring, giving the Oilers a 1-0 lead.
“Difference-makers are crucial at this stage of the season. It`s why they earn the salaries they do in this league,” DeBoer commented, referencing McDavid`s ability to create scoring chances even when well-defended. “Only a handful of players in the league can conjure something out of nothing. Edmonton has two of them. So, it`s good that we have one this year,” he added, acknowledging his own team`s presence of an elite threat.