Edmonton Oilers Take 2-1 Lead Over Dallas Stars in Western Conference Final

The Edmonton Oilers lead the Western Conference Final series against the Dallas Stars 2-1 and are poised to return to the Stanley Cup Final. After losing Game 1 in a dramatic comeback by the Stars, the Oilers responded with a shutout victory in Game 2, anchored by goalie Stuart Skinner, who has been outstanding with three shutouts in the playoffs. Game 3 saw the Oilers take a 2-0 lead in the first period and eventually dominate with a 6-1 win, fueled by key goals from Connor McDavid, Zach Hyman, and Evan Bouchard. The Stars have faced injury setbacks, most notably the loss of centre Roope Hintz due to a slash from Darnell Nurse, which has impacted their offensive effectiveness. The series shifts to Edmonton's Rogers Place for Games 3 and 4, where the Oilers look to capitalize on home ice advantage and potentially take a commanding 3-1 lead. Both teams are under pressure, but Edmonton's recent strong defensive and offensive performances, combined with the support of their home crowd, give them momentum in this pivotal stage of the playoffs.