NHL Western Conference Finals: Stars vs. Oilers Game 1 Odds, Preview, and Picks (May 21)

The race for a spot in the Stanley Cup finals is heating up, and the first of the seven-game series in the Western Conference finals is set for May 21, 2025. A fascinating rematch of last season’s finals in the conference is set, as the Dallas Stars will be gunning for revenge against the Edmonton Oilers.

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How To Watch

• When: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET
• Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas
• How To Watch: ESPN+

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Odds

Result	Odds
Dallas Stars	-125
Edmonton Oilers	+105

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Event Preview

For the second straight season, the Oilers and Stars will collide in the Western Conference finals. Based on last season’s outcome, the Oilers will hold the clear advantage after cruising through to the Stanley Cup finals in six games. However, the gap between the two teams does appear to have closed in 2024-25.

The Stars finished the regular season in third place overall in the Western Conference after accumulating a record of 50-26-6. Their attacking output was especially eye-catching, as they scored an impressive 277 goals.

Jason Robertson has been a standout player throughout the season, scoring 35 goals. It is the fourth straight season that they have reached the playoffs, while they have achieved a playoff finish in six of the last seven seasons. But, it could be argued that this is their best chance yet to go one better and win the Stanley Cup for a second time.

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However, the Oilers will also have the weight of expectation on their shoulders. Edmonton hasn’t won the Stanley Cup since claiming a fifth success in 1989-90. But, they have been consistent at this stage of the season in recent years, reaching the finals in 2024 and losing in the conference finals in 2022.

The Oilers could only finish sixth in the Western Conference standings, meaning that they will be on the road should this series reach a game seven.

However, their high-quality attacking talent could be worth considering, with both Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid enjoying memorable campaigns.

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Stars vs. Oilers Game 1 Picks

Home ice advantage could count for a lot in this series, meaning that the Stars can’t fall behind at the American Airlines Center on Wednesday. That added pressure could actually favor the travelling Oilers, who have progressively improved as the playoffs have continued. Therefore, a chance is taken on the outsiders in game one.

Free Pick:

• Edmonton Oilers