The Western Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs brings together two powerhouses: the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers. This marks a rematch of last season’s intense battle, when Edmonton advanced after six games before falling to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final. This time around, Dallas is seeking revenge, while Edmonton looks to cement its supremacy in the West.
Both teams arrive with high-powered offenses, disciplined defensive structures, and playoff-tested leadership. The series promises a fierce, physical, and strategic showdown—where one misstep could change the momentum entirely.
While the Oilers boast some of the league’s most electrifying talent, the Stars counter with depth, balance, and home-ice dominance. This matchup will test Edmonton’s goaltending resilience and Dallas’ ability to contain Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Keys to a Dallas victory
The Stars enter this series as one of the most balanced teams remaining in the postseason. Offensively, they are led by Mikko Rantanen, who currently leads all players with 19 points through 13 playoff games. His ability to produce in critical moments has set the tone for a versatile attack.
Mikko Rantanen #96 of the Dallas Stars controls the puck against Adam Lowry #17 of the Winnipeg Jets during the first period in Game Six of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center on May 17, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Stars’ depth could be the difference
One of Stars’ greatest strengths is their roster depth. With several players capable of contributing offensively—eight with at least 20 goals during the regular season—the Stars are not reliant on a single line to drive results. If they maintain their defensive structure and capitalize on home-ice advantage, they can control the pace of this series.
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On the blue line, the return of Miro Heiskanen has been essential. His elite puck movement and poise under pressure make him one of the top two-way defensemen in the league. Goaltender Jake Oettinger has continued to prove himself as a reliable presence in net, posting a .920 save percentage at home in the playoffs and holding a 5–1 record on home ice.
Keys to an Edmonton victory
The Oilers continue to be one of the most dangerous offensive teams in the league, thanks in large part to superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. McDavid enters the Conference Final with 17 points (3 goals, 14 assists), while Draisaitl follows closely with 16 points (5 goals, 11 assists), showcasing their ability to dominate at even strength and on the power play.
Edmonton’s special teams remain dangerous
Edmonton thrives in 5-on-5 situations and boasts a 25% success rate on the power play—making them lethal when given space to operate. However, their Achilles’ heel remains in goal. Stuart Skinner has had a rocky postseason, registering a .884 save percentage, raising concerns about his consistency in high-pressure scenarios.
For the Oilers to overcome Dallas, Skinner must elevate his performance, and the team’s defense needs to contain the Stars’ multi-line attack without taking unnecessary penalties.
Oilers vs. Stars: Series prediction
This series features two franchises with deep playoff ambitions and contrasting styles. The Oilers’ star power can take over a game in a heartbeat, but Stars’ depth, structure, and defensive reliability give them the edge.
Expect several close contests, likely including overtime finishes. However, unless Edmonton solves its goaltending concerns, Dallas should be able to wear them down over time. Look for the Stars to advance to the Stanley Cup Final in six games, avoiding the chaos of a do-or-die Game 7.
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