Veteran forward Jeff Skinner has cleared unconditional waivers and become an unrestricted free agent following a mutual contract termination with the San Jose Sharks. The 33-year-old signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the team last summer but struggled with production this season. Skinner now seeks opportunities with other NHL clubs amid his declining offensive output.
The San Jose Sharks placed left winger Jeff Skinner on unconditional waivers on Monday for the purposes of mutual contract termination. Skinner, who signed a one-year, $3 million contract as a free agent, cleared waivers on Tuesday and is now eligible to sign with any team.
This season, the 33-year-old has recorded six goals and 13 points in 32 games, including time missed due to a lower-body injury in November. His last appearance for the Sharks came on January 11 against the Vegas Golden Knights, after which he was a healthy scratch. Reflecting on his situation in late January, Skinner told San Jose Hockey Now, "The last few games I played, I felt like I was contributing positively to the team. I don't know. Two weeks ago, I don’t think I forgot how to play. I'm pretty confident in myself to be able to contribute at this level."
Sharks general manager Mike Grier acknowledged the move, stating, “We want to thank Jeff for his contributions to the organization, and wish him all the best.” Skinner's career highlights include winning the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2011 and scoring at least 30 goals in six seasons. However, his production has declined in recent years across stints with the Buffalo Sabres, Edmonton Oilers, and Sharks.
Teams in need of secondary scoring may consider Skinner, a six-time 30-goal scorer, though his current form and $3 million cap hit limited trade options for San Jose. Potential landing spots include the Los Angeles Kings, who face injuries like Kevin Fiala's season-ending leg fractures; the Tampa Bay Lightning, seeking added offense despite leading the Eastern Conference; and the Colorado Avalanche, aiming to bolster wing depth amid a recent 7-7-2 record.
