The Western Conference Final is set for a rematch of last year`s series, where the Edmonton Oilers eliminated the Dallas Stars in six games. As they face off again in Dallas, the key question for the Stars is what needs to change to alter the outcome this time around.
“Don`t go 0-for-14 on the power play,” stated Stars head coach Pete DeBoer, pinpointing special teams as the decisive factor in the previous series. He reflected on Game 6 last year, saying, “When I look back at last year`s series, I don`t think we could`ve played a better Game 6… They found a way to win that game, they found a way to score timely goals.”
In that elimination game, the Oilers capitalized with two early power-play goals and held on for the win. Dallas outshot Edmonton significantly, 34-10, but failed to score on their three power-play chances. The only Stars goal came from Mason Marchment, as Stuart Skinner delivered what many considered his best performance for the Oilers.
Oilers forward Zach Hyman also recalled Skinner`s strong play and the importance of special teams, commenting, “There wasn`t one specific thing — those are all things that usually help you win series.”
Entering Round 3 this year, Edmonton`s power play has an overall success rate of 25.6 percent, but they`ve struggled on the road during these playoffs, currently sitting at 0-for-14 away from home ice.
Looking at penalty kill efficiency in the postseason, Florida leads at 88.1 percent, followed by Carolina at 87.9 percent, and Dallas ranks third at 86.1 percent. Edmonton`s penalty kill, however, has been less effective, operating at 66.7 percent after facing early challenges, particularly against the L.A. Kings in Round 1.
DeBoer also specifically highlighted a pivotal moment from last year`s Game 6: Connor McDavid`s power-play goal. He described how McDavid skated off the flank, beat two defenders (Sam Steel and Miro Heiskanen), and scored with a backhand shot into the top of the net to give Edmonton an early 1-0 lead.
“Difference-makers are important this time of year. It`s why they get paid the money they get paid in this league,” DeBoer remarked. He added, “McDavid did that last year… We couldn`t have been in a better position, four guys around, and he finds a way to put one in the net.” He concluded by noting that only a few players in the league possess that elite ability to create chances from seemingly nothing, and Edmonton is fortunate to have two such players, while Dallas is pleased to have a difference-maker of their own this season.
