In a decisive offseason maneuver, the Edmonton Oilers signed seasoned forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract worth $3 million. This acquisition is among several moves aimed at bolstering their roster to make another deep playoff run for the upcoming season.
Jeff Skinner, a veteran in the league, found himself on the free-agent market after being bought out by the Buffalo Sabres. His time with Buffalo included an eight-year contract valued at $9 million annually. In his first year under this lucrative deal, Skinner netted an impressive 40 goals, demonstrating the offensive power that justified his previous hefty contract.
While his production waned slightly between 2019 and 2021, with 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games, Skinner rebounded strongly in subsequent seasons. During the 2021-22 campaign, Skinner recorded 30 goals and 63 points, and in the 2022-23 season, he elevated his game even further, registering 35 goals and a career-high 82 points. Most recently, he posted 24 goals and 46 points, underscoring his consistent scoring ability.
Skinner's acquisition addresses the Oilers' need for veteran scoring depth as they look to build on the momentum from last season, when they came within one win of clinching the Stanley Cup. The Oilers have not secured the Stanley Cup since 1990, and management's recent moves indicate a strong desire to end this drought. Edmonton signed Skinner while making strategic salary cap adjustments, including buying out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was costing the team $5 million annually.
In addition to bringing in Skinner, the Oilers made several other key signings. They re-signed forwards Connor Brown and Corey Perry to one-year deals worth a combined $2.15 million, and secured Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year deal valued at $4 million annually. On the defensive end, Josh Brown was signed to a three-year contract at $1 million annually. Despite these acquisitions, Edmonton retains limited cap space, entering the new season with just under $1.35 million available.
The Oilers' offseason strategy also included changes beyond acquisitions. Warren Foegele, previously with Edmonton, signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings. Additionally, restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway remain in need of new deals, which will require careful cap management.
Skinner's tenure with the Carolina Hurricanes earlier in his career further reflects his goal-scoring prowess. With six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal seasons under his belt, his track record speaks volumes. This history of sustained performance adds a reliable scoring punch to an Oilers team that already boasts a potent lineup.
As the season approaches, the Oilers' management, coaching staff, and fans alike will watch closely to see how these new additions integrate with the core team. The blend of experienced players and emerging talent aims to push Edmonton to the apex of the NHL. With high expectations and a clear goal of securing a Stanley Cup, the pressure is undoubtedly on.