Dallas Stars vs. Edmonton Oilers Game 1

Elite Talent vs. Structure in Western Conference Final Opener

The Edmonton Oilers travel to Dallas to open the Western Conference Final against a Stars team that continues to quietly assert itself as one of the most complete rosters in the playoffs. Edmonton leans on its elite top-end talent, while Dallas brings a four-line attack, defensive structure, and playoff-tested goaltending.

Dallas advanced through the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche with disciplined, two-way hockey and key contributions from Mikko Rantanen (9 G, 10 A) and Roope Hintz. Perhaps most importantly, goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a rock in net, posting a .919 save percentage and a 2.47 GAA through 13 playoff games. He’s given the Stars the edge in several tight moments and should be a major factor in this series.

Edmonton, meanwhile, rides the offensive firepower of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Oilers are averaging 3.8 goals per game this postseason and are coming off a statement Game 6 win over Vegas. Stuart Skinner bounced back with two shutouts to close that series, but his overall numbers (3.05 GAA, .884 SV%) raise concerns against a deeper Dallas forward group that’s scored 3+ goals in 6 of its last 9 games.

Pace and puck management will be key. If the Oilers can turn this into a free-flowing game with space for their stars, they’ll be dangerous. But if Dallas controls possession, slows the tempo, and leans on Oettinger in key moments, the Stars are built to outlast.

Best Bet: Over 6 Goals (-110)

There’s too much firepower on both sides for this to stay low scoring. McDavid, Draisaitl, and Hyman can turn any shift into a scoring chance, and Dallas has quietly put up strong offensive numbers of their own. With both teams scoring at a high clip recently and goaltending inconsistencies behind Edmonton’s blue line, the over is the best value on the board.

Lean: Dallas Stars Moneyline (-115)

Dallas has the goaltending edge, home-ice advantage, and the deeper forward group. Skinner’s recent form is encouraging, but Oettinger has been consistently sharp all postseason. Expect the Stars to set the tone at home and come out with a Game 1 win in a tightly contested, high-scoring battle.