In a notable offseason move, the Edmonton Oilers have secured the services of experienced forward Jeff Skinner on a one-year contract worth $3 million. Skinner, who was recently bought out by the Buffalo Sabres, is set to bring his scoring prowess to an Oilers team that came within a win of clinching the Stanley Cup last season.
Skinner's acquisition by Edmonton is a significant step for both player and team. His previous contract with the Buffalo Sabres was an eight-year deal valued at $9 million annually. Despite the hefty price tag, Skinner proved his worth early in the contract, netting 40 goals in his first year. However, the following years were a mixed bag for the forward. Between 2019 and 2021, Skinner managed 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games. The 2021-22 season marked a resurgence for Skinner, as he scored 30 goals and added 63 points. He improved further in the 2022-23 season, registering 35 goals and achieving a career-high 82 points. Most recently, Skinner scored 24 goals and recorded 46 points, showcasing his consistent goal-scoring ability.
The Oilers' front office made a series of strategic moves to accommodate Skinner's contract under their salary cap. Notably, they bought out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was costing the team $5 million annually. This decision was essential to freeing up the necessary cap space to sign Skinner. Additionally, the Oilers re-signed forwards Connor Brown and Corey Perry to one-year deals worth a combined $2.15 million. They also secured Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year deal worth $4 million annually and signed defenseman Josh Brown for three years at $1 million annually.
These transactions reflect Edmonton's commitment to bolstering their roster in pursuit of their first Stanley Cup victory since 1990. However, the Oilers are entering the new season with less than $1.35 million in cap space, leaving them with limited flexibility. They still need to negotiate new deals for restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, which could further strain their cap situation.
The departure of Warren Foegele, who signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings, highlights the delicate balance the Oilers must maintain between assembling a competitive roster and managing their payroll effectively.
Skinner's addition to the Oilers is expected to provide a significant boost to their offensive firepower. His track record, including six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, underscores his ability to contribute consistently at the highest level. For Skinner, this one-year deal represents an opportunity to revitalize his career and prove his value in Edmonton's quest for hockey's ultimate prize.
As the Oilers gear up for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating their new acquisitions and solidifying their roster. The mix of experienced veterans like Skinner, along with emerging talents, sets the stage for another compelling campaign in Edmonton. After coming so close to glory last season, the Oilers are poised to make another deep playoff run, with hopes that their offseason moves pay dividends when it matters most.