Preview: Stars and Oilers Face Off in Pivotal Game 5

Some teams thrive when facing elimination. For the Dallas Stars, Game 5 presents just such a challenge.

The Edmonton Oilers have established a significant 3-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals series as they head into Game 5 tonight.

The crucial question remains: can the Stars extend the series and force a return trip to Alberta for Game 6, or will the Oilers secure their spot in the Stanley Cup Final, potentially facing the Florida Panthers for the second year in a row?

Here is a look at key matchup notes and statistics heading into the game:

Matchup Notes

With their 3-1 lead, the Oilers` odds to win the Western Conference Finals have dramatically improved. Similarly, the Stars` chances of rallying have significantly decreased. Edmonton is now favored to win the Stanley Cup compared to Dallas.

Edmonton boasts an impressive home record this postseason, consistently outscoring their opponents in their arena. Historically, the Oilers have a strong record when leading a best-of-seven series 3-1, with very few instances of relinquishing such a lead.

Conversely, Dallas has struggled significantly on the road in the first period throughout these playoffs, failing to score an opening goal in their away games so far. The Stars also face a daunting historical precedent, having never won a best-of-seven series after trailing 3-1.

Leon Draisaitl continues to be a key offensive force for the Oilers, reaching significant franchise milestones in playoff goals and power-play goals, tying or nearing legendary players like Wayne Gretzky and Glenn Anderson.

Connor McDavid demonstrates remarkable consistency, with more multi-point games in his playoff career than games with one or zero points combined.

In net, Stuart Skinner has found his stride, securing important wins and moving up the Oilers` all-time playoff wins list for goaltenders.

For Dallas, Jason Robertson recently found success on the power play, continuing his strong performance in that area over recent postseasons, leading the team in power-play goals during this span.

Mikko Rantanen of the Stars is currently experiencing a goalless drought, which matches his longest in a single postseason.

Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger is on the cusp of advancing on the leaderboard for playoff wins by American-born netminders, currently tied with notable names from hockey history.

Scoring Leaders in Series Playoff Run