Oettinger and the Late Awakening: Dallas Stars Out of the Conference Finals
Jake Oettinger, a key piece in the Stars’ project, saw his performance in Game 5 be crucial for Dallas’s third consecutive elimination in the Western Conference finals. The Dallas team, despite their efforts, failed to overcome the Oilers.
Oettinger allowed two goals on Edmonton’s first two shots, prompting coach Peter DeBoer to replace his star goalie in an attempt to change the game’s dynamic. Although Dallas got within one goal on two occasions, their season came to an end with a 6-3 loss.“Any time you pull a goalie, the reason is to try to ignite your group,” DeBoer said. “That’s the number one reason. We had talked endlessly in this series about trying to play with the lead and, obviously, we were in a 2-0 hole right away. I didn’t take it lightly and I didn’t blame Jake entirely.”
Peter DeBoer, Stars coach
Dallas’s downfall began with a high-sticking penalty on Mavrik Bourque. Corey Perry scored on the power play, followed by Mattias Janmark, who extended the lead to 2-0 with Edmonton’s second shot.
Casey DeSmith replaced Oettinger, who played 7:09 minutes. The Oilers increased their lead to 3-0 with a goal by Jeff Skinner. Despite the efforts of Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz, Edmonton maintained their lead. Connor McDavid scored on a breakaway, and Evander Kane deflected a pass into the net, bringing the score to 5-3. Kasperi Kapanen sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.“We have to step up,” Robertson said. “It’s unacceptable that we leave him hanging like that. During the entire playoffs, he’s been our guy. The whole season. It’s unacceptable.”
Jason Robertson
Oettinger, who had a successful regular season, faced difficulties in the conference finals. Dallas opened this series with a victory, but Game 5 marked the only time in the series where his save percentage exceeded 0.900.
Oettinger’s early departure adds intrigue to the Stars’ offseason, who have significant financial considerations. An active offseason is expected in the Western Conference.
Dallas will have a class of seven unrestricted free agents, including captain Jamie Benn. In addition to reconfiguring their roster, the Stars will need to reflect on what it means to be the first team in NHL history to reach three consecutive conference finals without advancing to the Stanley Cup Final.“There are many examples in this league,” DeBoer said. “It’s a very, very difficult league to win. And when you get to the end of the final four, it becomes exponentially more difficult.”
Peter DeBoer, Stars coach
