This offseason, the Edmonton Oilers have turned heads with a series of strategic moves, the most notable being the signing of experienced forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract worth $3 million. This acquisition comes after Skinner was recently bought out by the Buffalo Sabres, ending his tenure with the team.
Skinner's addition to the Oilers' lineup is poised to bolster an offense that came within a win of clinching the Stanley Cup last season. His previous contract with Buffalo was an eight-year deal valued at $9 million annually, initially seen as a significant investment. Indeed, Skinner made an immediate impact, netting 40 goals in his first year under the deal. However, his performance dipped in the following seasons, with Skinner scoring 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games between 2019 and 2021.
Despite the downturn, the 31-year-old forward seemed to find his stride once more, closing the 2021-22 season with 30 goals and 63 points. Skinner continued this upward trend in the 2022-23 season by registering 35 goals and a career-high 82 points. Most recently, he recorded 24 goals and 46 points, indicating a player who still has much to offer on the ice.
Skinner's track record is hard to overlook. With six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal seasons during his time with the Carolina Hurricanes, his consistency as a goal-scorer is well-documented. This enduring ability will be crucial for the Oilers, who have not hoisted the Stanley Cup since 1990 and are determined to push for hockey's top prize in the upcoming season.
Securing Skinner's services wasn't without its moves and maneuvers. To make room for this valuable addition, the Oilers opted to buy out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was costing the team $5 million annually. This decision showcases Edmonton's intent to reconfigure its roster toward a more potent offensive lineup.
Additionally, the Oilers have been busy on multiple fronts, re-signing 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. However, Warren Foegele has taken his talents to the Los Angeles Kings, agreeing to a three-year contract.
With less than $1.35 million in cap space remaining, the Oilers are operating within a tight budget. Restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway remain unsigned, adding an element of urgency to the team's financial strategy as they streamline their roster for the new season.
The shrewd moves made by the Oilers this offseason underscore a clear focus: augmenting their offensive firepower while managing their salary cap efficiently. As the new season approaches, Edmonton is setting itself up to be a formidable contender, with Jeff Skinner poised to play a pivotal role in their quest for glory.