The Dallas Stars' playoff run came to an abrupt end with a 6-3 defeat against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals. Goalie Jake Oettinger was yanked after allowing two goals on the first two shots he faced. Coach Peter DeBoer acknowledged the need for a change to spark the team's performance, as the Stars fell into a quick 2-0 deficit. Backup Casey DeSmith replaced Oettinger, but soon witnessed Jeff Skinner score, extending the Oilers' lead to 3-0.

Oettinger’s struggles against the Oilers were highlighted, as he lost six of seven games to Edmonton in two consecutive playoff exits. Despite a respectable postseason save percentage of .908 before this game, his early exit raised questions about the Stars' goaltending strategy in crucial moments. DeSmith managed to stop 17 of 20 shots but couldn't salvage the game. The Stars' defense has been a recurring issue, as they allowed the first goal in 15 of their 18 playoff games, sealing their fate against a formidable Oilers team.

The Dallas Stars faced a dire situation in Game 5 against the Edmonton Oilers, trailing 3-0 less than half a period into the contest. After starting goalie Jake Oettinger allowed two goals on the first two shots, he was replaced by Casey DeSmith, who promptly conceded another goal, compounding the Stars' woes. Edmonton's Corey Perry opened the scoring with a power-play goal, followed by Mattias Janmark's breakaway, and finally Jeff Skinner's strike. Oettinger's performance had already dipped in the playoffs, making the situation even more precarious for the Stars as they fought for survival in the Western Conference finals.

The Dallas Stars are facing a flu outbreak just before their regular-season finale against the Utah Hockey Club, which has led to uncertainty regarding player availability. Coach Pete DeBoer shared that several key roster decisions will likely be made at game time. After suffering a 4-0 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, the Stars find themselves in a critical position, looking to break a four-game losing streak and solidify their playoff position.

As the playoffs loom, Dallas must secure a win, as their first-round matchup could be determined based on the outcome of this game and others, particularly involving the Winnipeg Jets. Casey DeSmith is expected to start in goal, which raises questions about the roster adjustments needed due to illness.