DALLAS — The Edmonton Oilers put on a strong performance as they secured a 3-0 victory against the Dallas Stars in Game 2 of their Western Conference Final. Goalkeeper Stuart Skinner made 25 saves, achieving his third shutout of the playoffs, just days after facing a tough loss where he allowed five goals.
“Perseverance and maturity are key for our team,” Skinner shared. “Playoffs are like a roller coaster, filled with ups and downs, but we know how to respond.”
The Oilers have demonstrated resilience, having previously rallied from a 0-2 deficit in their first playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings. Connor Brown, who suffered a cut from a skate in the second period, scored the final goal, putting the Oilers firmly in control with 4:37 remaining in that period. Notably, defenseman Brett Kulak scored first, marking his first goal in over a month.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins kicked off the scoring with a power-play goal in the first period. Coach Kris Knoblauch emphasized the team’s grit, noting their efforts in winning battles and blocking shots throughout the game.
This marks Skinner’s fourth career playoff shutout. Though he faced a challenging outing earlier against the Stars, he has shown tremendous ability to bounce back. Dallas’ Jake Oettinger managed to stop 22 shots but couldn’t hold off the Oilers’ offensive momentum.
In a concerning moment during the third period, Dallas forward Roope Hintz left the ice unable to put weight on his leg after a slash by Edmonton’s Darnell Nurse. Dallas coach Pete DeBoer questioned the officiating, wondering whether a different call would have been made had a star player like Connor McDavid been in the same situation.
Nugent-Hopkins, who noted his own improving performance, expressed a commitment to team success, while both McDavid and Leon Draisaitl continued to contribute significantly, each racking up 20 points in the playoffs. This consistent high-level play is vital as the Oilers head into Game 3 at home on Sunday.
