Dallas (1-1) at Edmonton (1-1)
- When: May 25 2025, 3:00 PM
- Where: Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB, CAN
- TV: ABC
Western Conference Finals Game 3 Preview: Stars vs. Oilers
Moneyline: Edmonton -170 | Total: 6.0
Dallas Stars Outlook: Searching for an Early Spark
The Dallas Stars return to the ice Sunday afternoon needing a bounce-back performance after being shut out 3-0 in Game 2. Despite splitting the series in Edmonton, Dallas has struggled to set the tone early, scoring first in just three of their 15 playoff games so far. That trend is a concern as the scene shifts to a hostile environment in Alberta.
Coach Pete DeBoer didn’t see Game 2 as a disaster, noting his team actually played better at even strength than they did in their Game 1 win. But improvement doesn’t mean much when you don’t light the lamp. Dallas will need to convert chances earlier and possibly do so without top-line center Roope Hintz, who left Friday’s game after taking a slash to the foot.
Wyatt Johnston emphasized the need to strike first in Game 3: “It sets the tone. We’ve got to stop letting the other team dictate early.”
Edmonton Oilers Outlook: Momentum and Maturity on Home Ice
Edmonton heads back home brimming with confidence after tying the series with a dominating Game 2 performance. The Oilers now own a 4-1 playoff record at Rogers Place and have dropped just two of their last 11 postseason contests. This team isn’t just about offensive flash anymore, they’re committed to defense, as evidenced by Stuart Skinner’s third shutout in four games.
Skinner’s resurgence has been massive, but Edmonton’s entire structure is clicking. They forced 27 Dallas turnovers in Game 2 and won the special teams battle, two crucial playoff ingredients.
Coach Kris Knoblauch praised the team’s balance: “We’re getting contributions up and down the lineup. The PK is rolling, the power play is lethal, and Skinner’s locked in.”
The only wrinkle? A rare 1 p.m. puck drop and tight travel turnaround.
Betting Prediction
The Stars will play tighter defensively and have a shot to cover the puck line, but expect another low-scoring grind unless they dramatically improve their zone entries and power play execution. Edmonton rides the home energy, crowd noise, and Skinner’s hot glove to another narrow win. Expect a grind-it-out type game where the Oilers edge out Dallas 3-2.
Final Score Prediction: Edmonton 3, Dallas 2
Best Bet: Edmonton ML (-170)
Total: Under 6.0 (+102)
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
