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NHL Match Previews 23/05/25

As the battle for the Stanley Cup intensifies, all eyes turn to Dallas, where the Stars and the Oilers clash once again in what promises to be a pivotal Game 2 in the Western Conference Finals. The Dallas Stars hold a 1-0 series advantage after a stunning third-period turnaround in the opener, where they netted five unanswered goals to crush the Oilers’ early momentum. Now, with Edmonton facing a must-win scenario to avoid heading home two games down, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Both teams have storied postseason pedigrees and proven abilities to bounce back under pressure. The Oilers, led by the electric Connor McDavid, must shore up their penalty kill to stand a chance, while the Stars aim to capitalise on their superior special teams and home ice advantage. It’s all set up for a fierce, tactical encounter as two Western giants collide once more.

Edmonton Oilers at Dallas Stars

Match Info

  • Stanley Cup Playoffs – Western Conference Finals, Game 2
  • Friday 23 May 2025 20:00 EST / 01:00 BST
  • American Airlines Center, Dallas, United States

Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers enter Game 2 carrying the sting of a squandered Game 1 opportunity. Despite building a 3-1 lead, Edmonton’s ongoing penalty kill issues reared their head once again, as they conceded three power-play goals in a decisive third period. With 14 power-play goals allowed in 12 playoff outings, defensive discipline is clearly the Achilles heel for a team boasting one of the most potent attacks in the league.

Led by McDavid and Draisaitl, Edmonton’s top-end talent remains unmatched, and they’ve shown incredible resilience in the past—coming back from series deficits in seven of their last nine playoff wins since 2017. However, special teams are currently failing them, and their typically lethal power play also fizzled out in crucial moments of Game 1. The Oilers have the firepower and experience to bounce back, but the pressure is now immense.

Dallas Stars

Dallas showed their championship credentials with a steely Game 1 comeback that highlighted their balance, depth, and poise under pressure. Boasting six comeback wins in the current playoff run and the league’s top power play unit in the postseason, the Stars are peaking at just the right time. Their ability to adjust mid-game—particularly on special teams—was evident, and they now look to double their series lead at home.

Head coach Pete DeBoer has preached the importance of special teams, and his side has responded with consistent execution. Dallas has a veteran group with conference finals experience in recent years, and that maturity showed in Game 1. Even after falling behind, their collective belief and composure turned the tide, and with a clinical mindset and consistent top-to-bottom contributions, the Stars are in command heading into Game 2.

America Bet Match Winner Prediction

Dallas Stars to win
The Stars’ playoff experience, elite special teams, and ability to perform under pressure make them a formidable home team. Unless Edmonton’s penalty kill dramatically improves, Dallas’ edge in discipline and depth should prevail once more.

America Bet Score Prediction

Edmonton Oilers 2 – 4 Dallas Stars
Expect the Oilers to respond with a tighter performance, but Dallas’ consistent third-period dominance and special teams prowess are likely to see them pull away late again.

America Bet Betting Tips

  • Dallas Stars to win
  • Total Goals – Over 5.5
  • Dallas Stars to win by 2+ goals
  • Jamie Benn anytime goalscorer
  • Connor McDavid to score 1+ point
  • Both teams to score in the first period
  • Dallas Stars power play goal – Yes
  • First period result – Draw
  • Total Dallas Stars goals – Over 3.5
  • Correct score – Dallas 4-2
Jonnie Kennie
Jonnie Kennie
Jonn started out his punting career from the tender age of 22. A self confessed sports nut, he is the first person we have come across who can cover any sport and does not admit to preferring one sport over the other or having a "main sport".

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