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.