The Western Conference series is shaping up to be a fascinating battle, with each game taking on a different character. In Game 3, the home team dominated early, controlling shots, scoring chances, and the scoreboard. Edmonton will rue leaving the first period with only a two-goal lead, as the momentum swung dramatically. Connor McDavid was the engine, setting up Zach Hyman for a deflection just three minutes in, then battling Tyler Seguin to stuff home a second goal himself. Jake Oettinger was the hero for Dallas, keeping the deficit manageable.
Evgeny Dadonov had a chance to cut the lead but couldn’t beat Stuart Skinner. After the intermission, the Stars came alive, playing with much greater speed. The Oilers were caught off guard, and within the first three minutes of the second period, the shot count evened out. Jason Robertson ended his drought by scoring twice in quick succession, both set up by the returning Roope Hintz. Wyatt Johnston then put Dallas ahead with a pass from Logan Stankoven. Mason Marchment nearly made it 4-1 but failed on a breakaway.
Edmonton didn’t register their first shot of the period until the 13th minute, but they managed to stabilize. With 50 seconds left in the frame, a forecheck forced a turnover and Connor Brown fed Adam Henrique for a tip‑in to make it 3-3. The third period saw chances at both ends—Leon Draisaitl hit the post, Matt Duchene had a solo look at Skinner—but Robertson completed his hat trick from a sharp angle, sneaking the puck between Skinner’s skate and the post. Miro Heiskanen added an empty‑netter to seal the 5-3 win, giving Dallas a 2-1 series lead and a psychological edge.
Bookmaker odds for Game 4: Edmonton Oilers win from 2.29 to 2.35, Dallas Stars win from 2.59 to 2.78.
