In a notable move this offseason, the Edmonton Oilers have significantly bolstered their roster by signing seasoned forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract worth $3 million. This signing comes after Skinner was bought out by the Buffalo Sabres, making him a standout free agent on the market.
Skinner, who originally signed a lucrative eight-year deal valued at $9 million annually with Buffalo, brings a proven track record of offensive prowess to the Oilers. His initial season under that contract saw him net an impressive 40 goals. However, his productivity fluctuated in subsequent years. Between 2019 and 2021, Skinner recorded 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games, a significant drop considering his high salary.
Despite these challenges, Skinner rebounded strongly in the 2021-22 season, scoring 30 goals and amassing 63 points. He continued this upward trajectory in the 2022-23 season, achieving a career-high of 82 points, including 35 goals. Most recently, he maintained his scoring touch with 24 goals and 46 points, proving he still has the ability to contribute at a high level.
The Oilers, who came within a win of clinching the Stanley Cup last season, hope that Skinner can bring additional firepower and experience to their lineup. This move is part of a broader strategy by Edmonton to solidify their roster for another deep playoff run. To make room for Skinner, the Oilers bought out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was costing the team $5 million annually.
In addition to Skinner, the Oilers have 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 strategic signings aim to enhance the team's depth and talent across the board.
However, the Oilers face some financial constraints entering the new season, with less than $1.35 million in cap space remaining. They still need to negotiate new contracts for restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, adding another layer of complexity to their offseason maneuvers.
While the Oilers have not won a Stanley Cup since 1990, these offseason moves signal their determination to end that drought. By adding a player of Skinner's caliber and securing key talent across the roster, Edmonton positions itself as a formidable contender in the upcoming season. With experienced players like Skinner and a blend of new signings, the Oilers look to build on their close call from last season and finally capture hockey's ultimate prize.
Meanwhile, Warren Foegele, who previously played with Edmonton, has signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings, marking another significant change in the Oilers' roster dynamics.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes play out on the ice and whether the Oilers' strategic moves will ultimately pay off. With a mix of veteran leadership and burgeoning talent, Edmonton is poised to make another serious run at the Stanley Cup, re-energizing their fans' hopes for a triumphant return to glory.