Stars Know They Need Their Game-Breakers to Perform vs. Oilers in Game 4
The Dallas Stars find themselves in a precarious position as they prepare for Tuesday night’s Game 4 against the surging Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference finals. Trailing 2-1 in the series and reeling from a humbling 6-1 defeat, the Stars are calling on their top players to rediscover their offensive spark before it’s too late.
Despite outshooting Edmonton and generating quality looks, Dallas lacked finish — and it’s not the first time this postseason. Several key contributors remain stuck in prolonged slumps. Jason Robertson’s goal on Sunday was his first of the playoffs, and veterans like Mikko Rantanen, Tyler Seguin, and Jamie Benn have been largely ineffective.
“We’ve just got to stick with it.”
— Mikko Rantanen, Stars Forward
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Slumps Threaten to Derail Dallas’ Cup Run
The list of Stars needing to elevate their play is long: Matt Duchene has just one postseason goal, Wyatt Johnston hasn’t scored in six games, and Benn hasn’t lit the lamp in 13.
Goaltender Jake Oettinger, so often a playoff asset, has been outdueled by Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner in back-to-back games. Dallas has been outscored 9-1 over those contests and will be counting on a potential return from Roope Hintz to inject life into their attack.
“There are a lot of veterans in this room and they’re going to be up to the challenge.”
— Jason Robertson, Stars Forward
Oilers Look to Take Command
Edmonton, on the other hand, is thriving — having won 10 of its last 12 games — and looks poised to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. Sunday’s win showcased their offensive efficiency, as they buried six goals on limited chances.
Connor McDavid was electric, notching two goals including a dagger in the final seconds of the second period. The Oilers have transformed into a balanced unit with 18 skaters finding the back of the net and seven players tallying at least five goals.
“He makes the right play, whether it’s a pass or a goal… when he shoots it, there’s a good chance it goes in.”
— Zach Hyman, Oilers Forward
McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, Zach Hyman, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins are all producing. Nugent-Hopkins has seven points in three games, leading all scorers in the series and earning praise for his elite two-way play.
Dallas faces a daunting task, but bettors still have options. Check out our latest NHL Picks and Predictions for expert betting angles ahead of Game 4.
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