The Edmonton Oilers have gained momentum in their playoff series against the Dallas Stars, taking a 2-1 lead after a decisive 6-1 victory in Game 3. The Oilers showcased strong defensive play, absorbing pressure while effectively counterattacking, particularly with standout performances from Connor McDavid and Stuart Skinner. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes face elimination, having faltered in a critical Game 3 against the defending champions, the Florida Panthers, who capitalized on the Hurricanes' defensive lapses in the third period. In other news, the New York Islanders have appointed a new general manager, which may signal a shift in strategy for the team.

The New York Islanders have appointed Matthew D'Ach as their new general manager, marking a significant shift in direction for the franchise. D'Ach, who has a solid background as an assistant GM with the Tampa Bay Lightning, arrives at a time when the Islanders are in need of rejuvenation after a disappointing season under previous GM Lou Lamoriello. He brings youthful energy and new strategies, aiming to revamp the team's roster and development system.

D'Ach's first major tasks include evaluating the roster, particularly key unrestricted free agents like Kyle Palmieri and defensemen Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov, who are crucial for the team's future. He also faces the challenge of addressing several aging contracts left by Lamoriello, striving to create a younger and more dynamic squad. The Islanders' developmental affiliate, Bridgeport, suffered historically last season, underscoring the need for a complete overhaul in player development to cultivate a new generation of talent.

Ken Holland is reportedly in line to take over as the new GM for the Los Angeles Kings following Rob Blake's departure. Holland's history includes guiding elite teams but raises questions about his recent failures with the Edmonton Oilers. The Kings, desperate for playoff success since their 2014 Cup win, hope to benefit from Holland's experience. Meanwhile, discussions about the New York Islanders' GM search reveal potential candidates are deterred by Lou Lamoriello's looming presence. The playoff performance of teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs adds to concerns, particularly with their current tied series against the Florida Panthers, raising the stakes for their star players to step up.

Rob Blake's departure as the Los Angeles Kings' GM follows another disappointing playoff run, marking a pivotal moment for a team that has not advanced past the first round under his leadership. The Kings were expected to make significant progress but instead succumbed to the Edmonton Oilers yet again, exacerbating the urgency for organizational change. The search for a new GM will be critical, with potential candidates already speculated, including Mark Bergman, who may bring a fresh perspective to address the team's stagnation.

Meanwhile, the New York Islanders stunned the hockey world by securing the top pick in the draft lottery, a much-needed boost for a franchise looking to revitalize its roster. The prospect of selecting a top player can inject new life into the team, stimulating fan excitement and offering hope for a brighter future.