Dallas Stars Seek Inspiration from Edmonton Ahead of Elimination Game

DALLAS — The Dallas Stars are looking to avoid elimination as they face the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final on Thursday at American Airlines Center. With the Stars down 3-1 in the best-of-7 series, coach Pete DeBoer pointed to Edmonton’s comeback in last season’s Stanley Cup Final as a source of motivation.

DeBoer highlighted how the Oilers overcame a 3-0 deficit against the Florida Panthers to force a Game 7 last year. “You don’t have to look any further than the Stanley Cup Final last year,” DeBoer said. “We’ve got to win one game tomorrow night, and then a do-or-die in Edmonton in Game 6 to try and get a Game 7 back here at home.”

Despite their recent struggles, which include losing three straight games following an opening 6-3 victory, the Stars remain hopeful. “We’re close,” DeBoer mentioned. The team’s ability to generate scoring opportunities has been evident, but the execution has not. Dallas has only managed two goals in the past three games.

Stars forward Jason Robertson noted the need to shoot better, saying, “It doesn’t matter how well we play unless we score.” Dallas ranked as the third-highest scoring team in the NHL during the regular season but has struggled significantly against Edmonton’s defense and goalie Stuart Skinner.

In the two games played in Edmonton, Dallas had a greater number of shots but faced defeat. The Stars outshot the Oilers 34-24 in Game 3 and lost 6-1, and in Game 4 they trailed 4-1 despite starting strong. “We have to find a way to put the puck in the net,” a frustrated forward expressed.

The team’s power play has also cooled off, going 1-for-8 in the last three games after a successful opening game. DeBoer acknowledged the importance of capitalizing on chances, emphasizing the need to focus on hitting the net more often.

As the team prepares to face the Oilers, they will rely on their performance at home, where they hold a 7-2 record in the playoffs. “Your home crowd, your home arena is a big advantage this time of year,” DeBoer said. The Stars hope to channel that energy into extending their playoff run.