Sharks Cut Ties with Former Calder Trophy Winner

Jeff Skinner placed on unconditional waivers for contract termination during Olympic break

Feb. 17, 2026 at 6:23am

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The San Jose Sharks have parted ways with veteran forward Jeff Skinner, placing him on unconditional waivers for the purposes of contract termination. Skinner, who won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year in 2010-11, had not appeared in a game for the Sharks since January 11th. The 33-year-old has played for multiple teams over his 12-year NHL career, amassing 379 goals and 712 total points.

Why it matters

Skinner's release comes during the 2026 Winter Olympics break, allowing the Sharks to part ways with the former star before their top players return from international competition. The move suggests Skinner was not fitting in with the team and that the decision to part ways was mutual.

The details

After playing in 32 games this season and recording 6 goals and 7 assists, the Sharks have decided to terminate Skinner's contract. The veteran forward has bounced around the NHL, playing for the Hurricanes, Sabres, Oilers, and now the Sharks over his 12-year career.

  • Skinner was placed on unconditional waivers for contract termination on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • Skinner had not appeared in a game for the Sharks since January 11, 2026.

The players

Jeff Skinner

A 33-year-old forward who won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's rookie of the year in 2010-11 while with the Carolina Hurricanes. Skinner has played in 1,110 NHL games over his 12-year career, scoring 379 goals and recording 712 total points.

San Jose Sharks

The NHL team based in San Jose, California that has decided to part ways with veteran forward Jeff Skinner during the 2026 Winter Olympics break.

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The takeaway

Skinner's release highlights the challenges veteran players can face in finding a consistent role as they move later in their careers. The Sharks' decision to part ways with the former Calder Trophy winner during the Olympic break suggests the move was mutual, as the team looks to reshape its roster ahead of the stretch run.