Pete DeBoer, head coach of the Dallas Stars, is navigating a critical playoff rematch against the Edmonton Oilers, reflecting on the duality of his long-term coaching partnership with Steve Spott. Their collaboration has yielded both triumphs and challenges, notably during a rocky start this season when the Stars struggled with a dismal power-play percentage.

With the playoffs now in full swing, the Stars' special teams have turned the tide, boasting the highest power-play success rate among remaining teams. The Stars have not only outscored the Oilers at even strength in previous playoff encounters but are also keenly aware of the Oilers' threats, particularly with players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on the ice. DeBoer's confidence in his special teams is palpable, yet the focus remains on 5-on-5 play—an area he believes will ultimately decide their fate in the series.