The Edmonton Oilers played arguably their most complete game in Game 5 against the Dallas Stars. Dallas was not able to generate much in terms of any type of scoring chances, Skinner was excellent when he needed to be, the powerplay finally clicked to the tune of 2 goals and Philip Broberg scored a 5 on 5 goal and his first ever playoff goal.

After the game Peter DeBoer took issue with some reporters questions and wasn't his same composed self. It looked like the Stars simply did not have an answer for the level of play that the Oilers were at.

That all being said, we have seen twists and turns throughout these playoffs. How many times have we thought that one team had the complete advantage before the other team stepped in and took over. The Oilers were down 3-2 against the Canucks and managed to come back to force Game 7 and win the series. Are the Stars good enough to do that? 100% they are. The Oilers need to do what they've done in every elimination game in these playoffs against their opponent; win.

While Tanev did end up playing the full game, he certainly looked a step behind all night. The Oilers outchanced the Stars 8-3 at 5 on 5 when Chris Tanev was on the ice. The player is clearly struggling right now but is doing everything he can muster to stay in the game. The Oilers also have the advantage of last change tonight and should be able to get their best out against that line.

Great to see Broberg score a goal that was very reminiscent of Klefbom goals from the past. Edmonton has been patient with Broberg and the player has been close to being traded but all of those things will be forgotten if he starts to find ways to produce and stay in the lineup. His mobility and calm two way game has certainly been on display against a very good Stars team.

It looks like Mavrik Bourque is going to play tonight for Dallas in place of Ty Dellandrea. Bourque, another young talented prospect in the Stars organization was the leading AHL scorer with 26 goals and 77 points in 71 games. Bourque has played in one NHL game and this will be his first ever playoff game. I don't think the Oilers need to focus specifically on this player but I expect Edmonton to still respect the skill that he has while also finding ways to exploit a young player.

Stuart Skinner has had a roller coaster of a playoff run. At times he has completely lost his job and needed Pickard to step in while at other times he has looked like one of the best in the playoffs. As long as the Oilers are playing the stifling defensive game in front of him that they have managed through the last couple games and eliminate the blatant turnovers in their own end, the Oilers should feel confident about their situation moving forward.

One potential roster change for the Oilers, it looks like Derek Ryan may step back into the lineup in place of Sam Carrick.

Oilers fans are all at the edge of their seats right now. The last win was so convincing that many fans are already licking their lips and thinking about the Stanley Cup Finals. The Edmonton Oilers last trip to the Stanley Cup Finals was 2006 and many (including myself) have not seen the Oilers truly complete for a Cup in their adult lives. This is the best and most anxious time in sports. Enjoy this as much as you can for as long as you can.

For the Edmonton Oilers, I am sure they are not thinking ahead and instead are focused on the task at hand tonight. I have been very impressed with the business like attitude this Oilers team has had throughout these playoffs. Focus on tonight and if they win, the Florida Panthers await.

Thanks for reading.

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