In a significant offseason maneuver, the Edmonton Oilers have bolstered their roster by signing the experienced forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract valued at $3 million. Skinner, who was recently bought out by the Buffalo Sabres, brings a proven scoring touch and veteran presence to an Oilers team that came within a win of clinching the Stanley Cup last season.
After being a cornerstone for the Sabres, where his eight-year contract paid him $9 million annually, Skinner found himself on the market following inconsistent performances and a decision by the Sabres to cut ties. His initial year under that substantial contract saw him net an impressive 40 goals, but the subsequent seasons told a different story. Between 2019 and 2021, Skinner managed just 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games. However, he bounced back in the 2021-22 season with a resurgent 30 goals and 63 points, followed by a career-high 82 points from 35 goals in the 2022-23 season.
Even though Skinner's recent tally of 24 goals and 46 points seems modest compared to his peak, his ability to find the net remains undiminished. Skinner's track record includes six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal seasons during his tenure with the Carolina Hurricanes where he originally made a name for himself in the NHL. His signing is a clear indication that Edmonton is doubling down on its quest to capture the Stanley Cup, a goal that has eluded them since 1990.
The Oilers’ aggressive offseason moves didn’t stop with Skinner. To accommodate his cap hit, the team bought out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was a heavy $5 million annually on their books. This maneuvering was crucial in creating the cap space needed not only for Skinner but for other vital signings. Forwards Connor Brown and Corey Perry were re-signed to one-year deals worth a combined $2.15 million. Additionally, Viktor Arvidsson was secured on a two-year deal at $4 million annually, and defenseman Josh Brown was signed for three years at $1 million annually.
However, the Oilers' management still faces the looming challenge of negotiating new deals for restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway. Entering the new season with less than $1.35 million in cap space, General Manager Ken Holland has some critical decisions ahead to ensure the roster remains competitive while staying under the salary cap.
Edmonton's movements this offseason are indicative of a strategic plan to build around their core while injecting fresh talent and experience into the lineup. Skinner’s acquisition is particularly interesting considering his history of fluctuating performance. The Oilers are banking on the veteran winger finding his scoring touch once more, providing a much-needed offensive boost to complement their star forwards.
Equally notable is the loss of Warren Foegele, who signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings. Foegele’s departure leaves a gap that Skinner and the other new signees will be expected to fill. The mix of retaining key players like Brown and Perry, alongside new additions, sets up a pivotal season for the Oilers.
As Edmonton gears up for another run at the Stanley Cup, the integration of these new players will be vital. The commitment to both veteran experience and youthful potential reflects a balanced approach designed to keep the team's momentum from last season. For the Oilers, the next few months will be crucial in setting the stage for a successful campaign, firmly focused on ending their long championship drought.