In a significant offseason move, the Edmonton Oilers bolstered their roster by signing forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract worth $3 million. This acquisition comes on the heels of Skinner’s recent buyout by the Buffalo Sabres, making him a sought-after free agent. The Oilers, who were just one win shy of clinching the Stanley Cup last season, are hopeful that Skinner will provide the scoring depth needed to push them over the top.
Skinner’s Career Revival
Skinner's journey has been one of highs and lows. His previous contract with the Sabres was an eight-year deal valued at $9 million annually. During the first year of that deal, Skinner justified his hefty salary by netting an impressive 40 goals. However, his performance fluctuated over the next couple of years, recording 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games between 2019 and 2021.
Despite this dip, Skinner showed signs of resurgence during the 2021-22 season, scoring 30 goals and tallying 63 points. His upward trajectory continued in the 2022-23 season, where he registered 35 goals and a career-high 82 points. Most recently, Skinner managed 24 goals and 46 points, demonstrating that he still has plenty left in the tank.
Making Room for Skinner
The Oilers had to make some tough decisions to accommodate Skinner’s salary. They opted to buy out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which had an annual cap hit of $5 million. This move freed up a significant portion of their cap space, allowing the team to make crucial signings.
In addition to Skinner, the Oilers secured several other key players. They re-signed forwards Connor Brown and Corey Perry to one-year deals, collectively worth $2.15 million. To further solidify their lineup, Edmonton nabbed Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year deal worth $4 million annually and signed defenseman Josh Brown for three years at $1 million annually. However, the departure of Warren Foegele, who signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings, has left a gap that the Oilers hope Skinner and the new additions will fill.
Cap Space Considerations
Entering the new season, the Oilers find themselves with less than $1.35 million in cap space. This tight situation is further complicated by the fact that restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway still require new deals. Edmonton’s general manager will need to navigate these financial constraints carefully to ensure the team remains competitive while adhering to the salary cap guidelines.
The Legacy and Future of the Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers have a storied history but have not raised the Stanley Cup since 1990. The recent near-miss in the Stanley Cup Finals has reignited the city’s hopes and aspirations. By adding an experienced and revitalized player like Skinner, along with other strategic signings, the Oilers aim to break their long championship drought. Skinner, with his track record of six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, brings both skill and experience that could be pivotal in the Oilers’ quest for glory.
In summary, the Edmonton Oilers have made a series of calculated moves this offseason, headlined by the acquisition of Jeff Skinner. By restructuring their roster and cap space, they have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see if these changes can finally lead the Oilers to Stanley Cup success. The next few months will be crucial as the team strives to build on last season’s achievements and aim for hockey’s ultimate prize.