With the series tied 1-1, the Edmonton Oilers return home to Rogers Place today for Game 3 against the Dallas Stars, and they do so with serious momentum. Puck drop is set for 1:00 PM local time, and a raucous Sunday crowd is expected as the Oilers look to build off their 3-0 shutout win in Game 2.
Here’s what to watch heading into this pivotal matchup:
1. Can Skinner Stay Hot?
Stuart Skinner was nothing short of brilliant on Friday night, stopping 31 shots for his first career playoff shutout. After a rough Game 1, his bounce-back performance gave the Oilers stability and confidence. If he can stay locked in and continue tracking pucks like he did in Dallas, Edmonton’s in great shape.
2. The Depth Is Delivering
Game 2 wasn’t just about the big names. Brett Kulak, Connor Brown, and Jake Walman all chipped in offensively and made life difficult for the Stars in transition. If Edmonton’s bottom six continues to contribute like this — especially at home where Kris Knoblauch can control the matchups — the Oilers could overwhelm Dallas with balanced attack.
3. Discipline & Special Teams
Game 1 saw the Stars strike three times on the power play. Game 2? Dallas went 0-for-5, while the Oilers converted on their lone opportunity. Edmonton was more composed, more structured, and more aggressive on the penalty kill. Continued success here could be a deciding factor in the series.
4. McDavid’s Ice Time and Matchups
Don’t be surprised if Connor McDavid sees more ice and more favorable matchups today. With last change at home, Knoblauch can shelter McDavid from Dallas' top defensive pairings — opening the door for more offensive fireworks from No. 97.
What’s at Stake?
A win gives Edmonton a 2-1 series lead and a chance to put real pressure on Dallas heading into Game 4. A loss gives home-ice advantage right back. Expect a fast start from the Oilers, who are 5-1 at home in these playoffs and thrive on energy from the crowd.
This series just got interesting — and Sunday afternoon in Oil Country could be a turning point.