It’s a cross-continent move for Jeff Skinner.
The Edmonton Oilers are signing the forward to a one-year contract worth $3 million, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.
Skinner was a free agent after his contract was bought out by the Buffalo Sabres.
Skinner, a five-time 30-goal scorer and one-time 40-scorer, provided some decent offence for the Sabres during his six-year tenure. However, his eight-year, $9 million cap hit proved too costly for the Sabres, thus contributing to his buy-out.
The 32-year-old will likely help to bolster secondary scoring under Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and is just one season removed from a point-per-game campaign.
Last season, the Markham, Ont., native put up 46 points (24 goals, 22 points) in 74 games.
Skinner was selected seventh overall by the Carolina Hurricanes at the 2010 NHL Draft and played eight seasons there before he was traded to Buffalo in the 2018 off-season.
The Edmonton Oilers have made a significant move in the offseason by signing forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract. Skinner, who was previously with the Buffalo Sabres, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Oilers lineup.
Skinner, a former Calder Trophy winner as the NHL’s rookie of the year, has been a consistent goal scorer throughout his career. In his nine seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes and three seasons with the Sabres, Skinner has scored over 30 goals in a season four times. His ability to find the back of the net will be a valuable asset to the Oilers as they look to improve their offense.
The one-year contract is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Oilers. Skinner will have the opportunity to prove himself and potentially earn a longer-term deal with the team if he performs well. On the other hand, if Skinner struggles or fails to live up to expectations, the Oilers can move on from him after just one season.
Skinner’s addition to the Oilers roster adds depth and scoring punch to a team that already boasts superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. With Skinner in the mix, the Oilers have the potential to be a dangerous offensive team that can compete with the best in the league.
Overall, the signing of Jeff Skinner is a smart move for the Edmonton Oilers. Skinner’s scoring ability and experience make him a valuable addition to the team, and his one-year contract gives both parties flexibility moving forward. Oilers fans should be excited to see what Skinner can bring to the team in the upcoming season.