On Monday (Feb. 16), it was revealed that the San Jose Sharks had placed forward Jeff Skinner on waivers for the purpose of a contract termination.
Jeff Skinner (SJ) on unconditional waivers for purposes of contract termination
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 16, 2026
Skinner, who is 33 years old, scored six goals and added seven assists for 13 points through 32 games with the Sharks this season. Last season, he had 29 points through 72 games with the Edmonton Oilers. Throughout his career, he has scored 379 goals and added 333 assists for 712 points through 1110 games.
Related: Where Are They Now? The Jonathan Cheechoo Edition
In this article, we take a look at three potential fits for Skinner as he looks for his next place to play coming out of the Olympic break.
Vegas Golden Knights
The first fit that makes perfect sense is the Vegas Golden Knights. They have struggled a bit with their forward depth, and while they seem poised to make a deep playoff run with the team they currently have, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them try to add some more firepower to their bottom-six forward group.
Skinner could immediately step into the Golden Knights’ third line. He would add a lot of veteran experience to their lineup, and while he lacks the playoff experience that most teams will take into consideration come the trade deadline, he would be a low-risk, high-reward player if he pans out and can find some confidence as a two-way player.
Washington Capitals
The Washington Capitals have loosely been linked to several trade targets, including Quinn Hughes, who have been moved over the last couple of months, but have yet to make a splash. While Skinner likely doesn’t move the needle, the Capitals may be willing to add whatever they can in hopes of sneaking into a playoff spot and giving their current core one last run.
With Alex Ovechkin likely leaning towards retirement or a return to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, the Capitals need to make some moves, considering they are on the outside looking in of the playoff picture with the trade deadline approaching. Skinner has proven he can be an effective two-way player in the past, and a fresh start may benefit both himself and the Capitals.
Los Angeles Kings
After losing Kevin Fiala to a major injury at the Olympics, following a freak accident after colliding with Tom Wilson, the Los Angeles Kings may be forced to make some additions if they want to make the playoffs. They made a splash acquiring Artemi Panarin before the roster freeze went into place, but with Fiala on the shelf for the rest of the season, they will need to bring in reinforcements.
Skinner likely can’t provide what Fiala does, but he would strengthen their depth. The Kings will have some extra money to spend, and if Skinner is willing to sign on a cost-effective contract, he could be a low-risk signing that helps elevate their bottom six.
As long as he doesn’t get claimed off waivers, Skinner will likely make his decision on where he plays next shortly after his contract is officially terminated from the Sharks. Time will tell where he ends up signing next, but it wouldn’t be surprising if these three teams were interested.
As the 2025-26 season moves along, be sure to continue following The Hockey Writers as your source for news, updates, and more from around the NHL and the hockey world.
