The San Jose Sharks have placed veteran forward Jeff Skinner on unconditional waivers Monday, signaling the intent to terminate his contract, according to multiple reports. If Skinner clears waivers, he will become an unrestricted free agent on Tuesday. This move comes as the Sharks look to reshape their roster and create cap space.
Skinner, 33, has recorded six goals and 13 points in 32 games played with the Sharks this season. He last appeared in a game for San Jose on January 11th, serving as a healthy scratch leading into the Olympic break. The decision to place him on waivers marks a significant shift for both the player and the organization.
The Sharks signed Skinner to a one-year, $3 million contract in July, a deal mirroring the terms he had with the Edmonton Oilers during the 2024-25 season. Last season with Edmonton, Skinner demonstrated offensive capabilities, registering 16 goals and 29 points in 72 regular-season games. He also contributed one goal and two points in five playoff games during the Oilers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final, Sharks Hockey Digest reports.
Drafted seventh overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2010, Skinner has amassed 379 goals and 712 points in 1,110 career NHL games with the Hurricanes, Buffalo Sabres, Oilers, and Sharks. He has a history of offensive production, being a five-time 30-goal scorer, with a career-high of 40 goals for the Sabres in the 2018-19 season. He most recently reached the 30-goal mark with Buffalo in 2022-23.
Early Career Success and Calder Trophy Win
Skinner’s NHL journey began with immediate success. He won the Calder Trophy as the league’s rookie of the year in the 2010-11 season, recording an impressive 31 goals and 63 points in 82 games with the Hurricanes. This early recognition established him as a promising young talent in the league. Yardbarker details his early achievements.
Sharks’ Roster Adjustments and Future Outlook
The decision to waive Skinner reflects the Sharks’ ongoing efforts to rebuild and adjust their roster. The team is currently navigating a challenging season and is looking to create opportunities for younger players to develop. Clearing waivers would allow Skinner to explore options as an unrestricted free agent, potentially finding a new team where he can contribute offensively.
Skinner’s experience and scoring touch could be valuable to a contending team seeking depth. His ability to create offense and his veteran presence make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their forward lines. TSN reports that the move is part of a larger strategy to reshape the Sharks’ lineup.
What comes next for Skinner remains to be seen. He will now await the outcome of the waiver process, which will determine his future in the NHL. The Sharks, meanwhile, will continue to evaluate their roster and explore options to improve their performance.
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