Stars Shut Out – Series Tied At 1 Each

The Edmonton Oilers delivered a commanding performance on May 23, 2025, shutting out the Dallas Stars 3-0 in Game 2 of the Western Conference Final at American Airlines Center. The victory allowed Edmonton to even the best-of-seven series at one game apiece before the action shifts to Rogers Place in Edmonton.

Oilers’ Defensive Discipline and Skinner’s Shutout

Goaltender Stuart Skinner was the backbone of the Oilers’ effort, stopping all 25 shots he faced to register his third shutout of the 2025 postseason. Skinner’s poise was especially evident in the third period, highlighted by a spectacular stick save on Dallas defenseman Esa Lindell that preserved the shutout and stymied any hopes of a Stars comeback.

The Oilers’ penalty kill, which struggled in Game 1, rebounded by successfully killing off both Dallas power plays. Edmonton’s disciplined defensive structure and limited mistakes were key factors in the win, as noted by captain Connor McDavid, who emphasized the team’s commitment to defending and minimizing errors.

Scoring Summary

Edmonton opened the scoring in the first period with a power-play goal from Ryan Nugent-Hopkins at 5:51, his fifth of the playoffs and second consecutive game with a power-play tally. Nugent-Hopkins capitalized on a rebound near the crease after Evan Bouchard’s point shot was deflected.

The Oilers extended their lead in the second period with two goals in quick succession. Brett Kulak scored his first of the playoffs at 15:23, following up his own blocked shot and firing the rebound past Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger. Just 1:13 later, Connor Brown deflected a Nugent-Hopkins shot from the left face-off circle, making it 3-0 and capping the scoring for the night.

Stars’ Struggles

Dallas, who had won seven consecutive home playoff games prior to Game 2, struggled to generate sustained offensive pressure. Oettinger made 22 saves in the loss, but the Stars were unable to solve Skinner and were shut out for the fourth time in the 2025 postseason.

The Stars’ power play, which had been effective in Game 1, was neutralized by the Oilers’ penalty kill. Dallas’ best opportunities came in the third period, but Skinner’s timely saves, including his highlight-reel stop on Lindell, kept the home team off the scoreboard.

Key Performers

• Stuart Skinner (EDM): 25-save shutout, third of the playoffs

• Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (EDM): 1 goal, 1 assist

• Brett Kulak (EDM): 1 goal

• Connor Brown (EDM): 1 goal

• Evan Bouchard (EDM): 2 assists

• Jake Oettinger (DAL): 22 saves

Series Outlook

With the series now tied 1-1, both teams will look to gain an edge as the Western Conference Final shifts to Edmonton for Games 3 and 4. The Oilers’ ability to regroup after a disappointing Game 1 loss and the Stars’ quest to reignite their offense set the stage for an intriguing continuation of the series.