Betting tips, picks for Western Conference finals Game 5 - ESPN

While the Dallas Stars boast an edge in Expected Goals in all situations, they trail the Edmonton Oilers on the running scoresheet 16-8, and 3-1 in the series. If not for a flurry of three quick power-play tallies in the third period of Game 1, this Western Conference finals could already be over.

Edmonton's Stuart Skinner deserves a hefty amount of credit, having stopped 86 of 88 shots in his past three contests. Dallas coach Pete DeBoer also suggests his players would enjoy greater fortune by hitting the net more often, instead of trying to rifle off the perfect shot.

Fortunately for DeBoer's crew, they're back to where they've succeeded most this postseason. Rocking a 7-2 record, the Stars have outscored the competition 31-22 at American Airlines Center, including 12 with the extra skater.

There's also Edmonton's loss of Zach Hyman, who has been a difference-maker all around, to consider. In addition to pitching in two goals and an assist (plus-five), the Oilers forward leads both clubs — and it isn't even close — with 33 hits through four contests.

If the Stars continue to pepper the net like they have, and Skinner isn't near perfect, there's a solid chance this series shifts back to Edmonton for Game 6. Particularly if special teams are a factor. Dallas is nearly 43% effective on the power play at home this postseason.

All odds accurate as of publish time. For more, go to ESPN BET.

Edmonton Oilers at Dallas Stars
Game 5: American Airlines Center, Dallas; Thursday, 8 p.m. ET

Money line: Oilers (+115); Stars (-135)

Puck Line: Oilers +1.5 (-235); Stars -1.5 (+180)

Over/Under: 5.5 (+110/-130)

Mark Messier discusses the Oilers' impressive power-play performance with Scott Van Pelt as Edmonton takes a 3-1 series lead