Can Jeff Skinner revive his old magic in the San Jose Sharks, or is this just a short stop on his journey?
After a difficult season in Edmonton, Jeff Skinner is embracing a fresh start with the San Jose Sharks—one that may be short-term on paper but could prove transformative for both sides.
The 33-year-old forward inked a one-year, $3 million deal with the Sharks, a decision driven by the promise of opportunity and a desire to prove he still belongs among the
NHL
's top contributors.
Is Jeff Skinner a stopgap or savior? Sharks place their bet as rebuild gains momentum
'As a player, you look for someone that's sort of interested in you or willing to give you an opportunity,' Skinner said, expressing his excitement to join a young, developing team eager for guidance and leadership.
Unlike last year with the powerhouse Oilers—where Skinner was surrounded by elite talent like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl but received limited ice time—San Jose presents a chance for him to play meaningful minutes.
He's expected to slot into a top-six role and contribute regularly on the power play, something he sorely lacked in Edmonton.
'Coming to a team where they're giving you some opportunity as a player, I think that's what you look for,' he explained. 'Then obviously as the player, you have to take advantage of it.'
Despite his impressive resume—373 career goals and six 30-goal seasons—Skinner's 2023–24 campaign was underwhelming.
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In 72 games, he tallied just 16 goals and 29 points while averaging 13 minutes of ice time. He managed only two points in five playoff games, including the Cup Final, which Edmonton lost in six games. It was a bitter taste after finally making his postseason debut.
'Having gone through the season I went through last year, I think in terms of offensive production, it wasn't up to my standard,' Skinner admitted. 'For sure, I'd like to improve on that production and help the team in any way I can.'
The Sharks finished last in the NHL last season, scoring a league-low 2.54 goals per game. With promising young stars like Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and William Eklund anchoring the rebuild, Skinner's experience could be invaluable.
'It's always fun to play with great players and that's what those guys are,' said Skinner. 'I'm really excited to join the team.'
Sharks GM Mike Grier echoed that optimism, noting, 'These players were brought in to help our group grow and make us a better team.'
Though Grier isn't ruling out trade possibilities should the team struggle again, the intention is to make this a season of progress—not a repeat of past fire sales.
Skinner, whose contract includes a no-trade clause until January 30, 2026, is one of ten Sharks set to become unrestricted free agents next summer. Whether he stays beyond this season remains to be seen. But for now, the veteran winger is laser-focused on contributing, mentoring, and reigniting his scoring touch in a city ready to turn the page.
'I, for sure, think that I have a lot left in the tank,' Skinner affirmed. 'There's some extra juice and energy that comes with a new challenge. I'm real excited to get going.'
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