Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Experts in Unanimous Agreement on Outcome of Oilers-Stars Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated May 19, 2025 2:24 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars are getting ready to begin the Western Conference Final, setting up a rematch from last season. The Oilers took down the Stars last year and will be looking to do more of the same here.

Both teams have played extremely well in the postseason so far, and this seems to be a great matchup. Each side has a claim to why they should be favored, but only one can advance to the Stanley Cup Final.

Chris Bengel and Austin Nivison of CBS Sports predicted the series, and both came away with the same conclusion. Both picked Dallas to get some redemption in taking down the Oilers this season.

Bengal has the Stars winning in a seven-game series

"The gap between these two teams is razor thin, but I'm giving the edge to the Stars due to their advantage in the goaltending department. Jake Oettinger was sensational against Winnipeg, while I expect Calvin Pickard to eventually come back down to earth in what could be a very long series. Pick -- Stars def. Oilers 4-3"

Nivison has Dallas winning in six games.

"I would be remiss if I didn't mention the enormous goaltending edge the Stars have in this matchup with Jake Oettinger across from Stuart Skinner. That being the case, I'm going to go with the Stars' combo of quantity and quality over the Oilers' top-heavy roster construction. Pick -- Stars def. Oilers 4-2"

The Stars went 2-1 over the Oilers during the regular season, but the playoffs are an entirely different animal. Both sides understand that nothing will come easily, and this should be a great battle between two strong squads.

Game 1 between the two sides is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, at 8 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: