Jeff Skinner clears waivers after Sharks waive veteran forward

Veteran forward Jeff Skinner has cleared waivers after the San Jose Sharks placed him on unconditional waivers for the purpose of mutual contract termination. The move, announced earlier this week, ends Skinner’s short tenure with the California club after both sides agreed to part ways. Sharks general manager Mike Grier issued a statement thanking Skinner for his contributions.

The 33-year-old signed a one-year, $3 million deal with San Jose in July 2025 but struggled to find consistent playing time, becoming a frequent healthy scratch after his last game on January 11. Now an unrestricted free agent, Skinner is free to sign with any NHL team.

Skinner’s time with the Sharks

Skinner appeared in 32 games for the Sharks this season, posting six goals and seven assists for 13 points. His average ice time dipped to a career-low 12:21 per game, reflecting the team’s shift toward younger talent.

The Sharks’ decision was mutual, allowing both parties to move forward. “We want to thank Jeff for his contributions to the organization, and wish him all the best,” Grier said. Skinner joined San Jose hoping to revive his scoring touch after a buyout from Buffalo and a playoff run with Edmonton.

Injuries and inconsistent production hampered his start. He missed time in November with a lower-body issue but returned without recapturing his form.

The waiver process unfolded quickly, with Skinner clearing on Tuesday after being placed on the list Monday. This clears cap space and roster spots for San Jose amid emerging prospects.

As the Sharks integrate young stars like Macklin Celebrini in his rise to stardom, veterans like Skinner faced reduced roles.

A storied NHL career

Skinner burst onto the scene with the Carolina Hurricanes, winning the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie in 2010-11 with 31 goals in 71 games. Drafted seventh overall in 2010, he has six 30-goal seasons to his credit.

Here are Skinner’s 30+ goal campaigns:

• 2010-11: 31 goals (Carolina)
• 2013-14: 33 goals (Carolina)
• 2016-17: 37 goals (Carolina)
• 2018-19: 40 goals (Buffalo)
• 2021-22: 33 goals (Buffalo)
• 2022-23: 35 goals (Buffalo)

Over 1,110 NHL games, Skinner has amassed 379 goals and 712 points. His peak years in Buffalo saw him flirt with 40 goals, though a buyout in 2024 ended that chapter.

Last season with the Edmonton Oilers marked his playoff debut, where he notched one goal and two points in five games after 16 goals in 72 regular-season contests.

What’s next for Skinner

As a free agent, Skinner can target contenders needing scoring depth. His experience and shot make him attractive for bottom-six roles on playoff teams.

Teams monitoring the waiver wire passed, but now he can negotiate directly. At 33, he remains productive, drawing interest from clubs like those in the Atlantic Division.

Skinner’s agent will prioritize ice time and a chance to compete. Recent UFA signings by playoff hopefuls suggest opportunities abound.

For more on Skinner’s stats, check his page on Hockey-Reference.

Sharks’ roster evolution

San Jose’s move signals a youth movement. With prospects like those behind Alexander Wennberg’s extension, the team prioritizes development.

Recent acquisitions, such as Laurent Brossoit and Kiefer Sherwood, aim to balance experience with upside. Clearing Skinner’s contract avoids a 23-man roster crunch.

Injuries to Will Smith and Philipp Kurashev highlight depth needs, but returns could enable AHL shuttles.

The full story is detailed in this ESPN report.

This parting allows San Jose to focus on the future while freeing Skinner for new beginnings.

Skinner’s exit underscores the NHL’s transient nature, especially for rebuilding teams. As he seeks his next chapter, the Sharks push toward contention. Expect Skinner to land on his feet, contributing wherever he signs next.