Good morning, Oil Country. If you're still riding the high from last night’s Game 4 win, you’re not alone.
The Edmonton Oilers delivered another strong playoff performance at Rogers Place, dispatching the Dallas Stars 4-1 to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Final. They now sit just one win away from their second trip to the Stanley Cup Finals in two years.
But this wasn’t a clean, easy victory, Edmonton had to dig deep. Just minutes into the first period, Zach Hyman, who’s been nothing short of dominant this postseason, left the game with an injury and didn’t return. It was a gut-punch moment for a team that’s leaned heavily on Hyman’s relentless forecheck and goal-scoring touch.
Rather than folding, the Oilers did what great teams do, they adapted, rallied, and found production up and down the lineup.
Here’s what stood out while you were sleeping:
Nuge Keeps Rolling
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins continues to fly under the radar, but it’s becoming impossible to ignore how vital he’s been. With two more assists last night, including a perfect feed to Leon Draisaitl for the opening power-play goal, Nuge is now up to 13 helpers in the postseason. He’s playing some of the smartest, most confident hockey of his career.
Corey Perry, Playoff Legend
Every playoff run needs a grizzled vet who’s been there before. Enter Corey Perry. The 40-year-old added a goal and an assist in Game 4 and looked like the smartest guy on the ice all night. His net-front presence continues to be a major factor on the power play.
Skinner's Redemption Arc Grows
Stuart Skinner wasn’t just good, he was dialed in. Stopping 28 of 29 shots, Skinner held the fort when Dallas pushed, especially during a second-period surge. He’s now posted back-to-back outstanding performances after early playoff wobbles. Quiet confidence is returning to his game, and to the fan base.
Empty-Net Insurance
Kasperi Kapanen and Adam Henrique both potted empty-netters in the final minutes, sealing the win and giving the home crowd one last reason to erupt. Their ability to step up with Hyman out speaks to the Oilers’ depth, which has turned into a real strength in this series.
The Bigger Picture
Edmonton has won three straight and completely taken over the momentum in this series. With Dallas on the ropes, Game 5 becomes the Oilers’ biggest opportunity yet, a chance to finish things on the road and book their spot in the Stanley Cup Final.
Hyman’s status looms large, but if Game 4 showed anything, it’s that this Oilers team can find a way, even when a core piece goes down.
So, Oilers fans, pour your coffee, soak in the morning sunshine, and exhale. Your team is one win away.