The Dallas Stars bounced back from a Game 1 loss to the Edmonton Oilers with a 3-1 victory in Game 2 of the NHL’s Western Conference final on Saturday. Mason Marchment scored the game-winning goal early in the third period, tipping in a shot from Ryan Suter to break a 1-1 tie.
Jamie Benn and Esa Lindell also contributed to the Stars’ offense, with Benn scoring a goal and an assist, and Lindell sealing the win with an empty-net goal. Jake Oettinger was solid in net for Dallas, making 28 saves to secure the victory.
The Stars, who have now won Game 2 in five of their last seven series after losing Game 1, will head to Edmonton for Games 3 and 4 with the series tied at 1-1. The momentum is now on their side as they look to take the lead in the series.
The game was not without its drama, as Connor Brown scored for the Oilers just 44 seconds after Benn’s opening goal for the Stars. However, Edmonton was unable to capitalize on their opportunities, with Stuart Skinner making 22 saves in the loss.
The atmosphere at American Airlines Center was electric, with Super Bowl champion Travis Kelce in attendance, along with professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau and former MLB pitcher Cole Hamels. Kelce received a mixed reaction from the crowd when he was shown on the big screen during the game.
Both teams were missing key players, with Roope Hintz out for the Stars due to injury and Adam Henrique sidelined for the Oilers. Henrique, who has been dealing with an ankle injury, is a valuable asset for Edmonton, and his potential return to the lineup could provide a boost for the team.
As the series shifts to Edmonton, both teams will be looking to gain an edge and take control of the series. With the Stars showing resilience and the Oilers looking to bounce back, Game 3 promises to be an intense battle as both teams fight for a spot in the Stanley Cup final.