Stars score 3 in 5½ minutes to beat Oilers 6-3 in Game 1 of Western Conference final

The Dallas Stars started off their Western Conference final rematch against the Edmonton Oilers on a high note, securing a 6-3 victory in a thrilling game. Miro Heiskanen, Mikael Granlund, and Matt Duchene were the stars of the show, scoring power-play goals in a span of just 5 minutes and 26 seconds early in the third period.

The third period began with the Stars facing a two-goal deficit but with a man advantage due to a penalty carryover from the second period. Heiskanen wasted no time, scoring just 32 seconds into the period with a powerful shot from near the blue line. Granlund quickly followed suit, tying the game, and Duchene put the Stars ahead with a second-effort goal that made it 4-3.

Tyler Seguin had a standout performance, contributing two goals and an assist for the Stars. Esa Lindell sealed the deal with an empty-net goal that nearly went the length of the ice, marking the first time the Stars have ever scored five goals in a third period in a playoff game. Goalie Jake Oettinger made 24 saves to help secure the win for Dallas.

Game 2 is set to take place on Friday night in Dallas, where the Stars will look to continue their winning streak. Last year, Dallas struggled on the power play in the West final, but they turned things around in this game, capitalizing on their opportunities in the third period.

The Oilers, led by Leon Draisaitl with a goal and two assists, put up a strong fight but ultimately fell short. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Evan Bouchard also contributed with a goal each, while Connor McDavid added two assists. Goalie Stuart Skinner made 22 saves in the loss.

Heiskanen and Duchene both scored their first goals of the postseason in this game, adding to the excitement for Stars fans. Dallas secured their seventh consecutive home win this postseason, a feat not achieved since the team moved to Dallas in 1993. They have also broken their streak of losing consecutive series openers, showing their determination to come out strong in the playoffs.

Overall, it was an action-packed game that set the stage for an exciting series between these two talented teams. Fans can expect more thrilling matchups as the Stars and Oilers battle it out for a spot in the Stanley Cup finals.