Dallas Stars fire head coach Pete DeBoer after shocking Western Conference Finals collapse
In a move that has stunned the NHL world, the Dallas Stars have fired head coach Peter DeBoer, just days after the team was eliminated in the Western Conference Final.
Despite leading the Stars to back-to-back deep playoff runs and finding much success in recent years with the Golden Knights and Sharks, DeBoer’s puzzling decision to pull starting goaltender Jake Oettinger early in Game 5 against Edmonton is being widely cited as the breaking point within the organization.
Oettinger was yanked less than eight minutes into the game after giving up two quick goals, sparking visible frustration from the goalie and reportedly drawing internal criticism from several veteran players. The Stars never recovered in the series, and whispers quickly began that DeBoer had lost the room.
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Oettinger Benching
DeBoer stood by his decision, pointing to Oettinger's struggles in the series, but for many, pulling the team’s most important player at such a crucial moment sent the wrong message.
The move not only impacted Game 5 but it may have fractured trust in the room at the worst possible time.
Betting Outlook: Despite Firing, Stars Remain Cup Favorites
Interestingly, oddsmakers aren’t shaken by the coaching change. In fact, FanDuel currently lists the Stars at +850 to win the 2025 Stanley Cup, making them one of the betting favorites heading into next season. That puts them right in the mix with other elite contenders like the Oilers and Panthers.
The confidence from sportsbooks suggests faith in the Stars’ roster more than their bench boss. With a young core that includes Jason Robertson, Miro Heiskanen, Wyatt Johnston, and a motivated Oettinger, Dallas still boasts one of the most balanced lineups in the league.
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What Bettors Should Know
- At +850 on FanDuel, early value could lie with Dallas if they make the right coaching hire and keep their core intact.
- Watch for Oettinger bounce-back props next year as his success this postseason could lead to him being a dark horse for Vezina consideration if he returns next season in the same form with a coach who trusts him.
- The Stars’ odds may shorten quickly once a new head coach is announced, especially if it’s a respected veteran with playoff pedigree.
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