Sharks Terminate Contract with Veteran Forward

Jeff Skinner placed on waivers as Sharks and player agree to part ways before trade deadline.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 8:47am

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The San Jose Sharks have placed veteran forward Jeff Skinner on unconditional waivers for the purpose of mutually terminating his contract, a source confirmed. The two sides agreed to part ways less than three weeks before the NHL trade deadline.

Why it matters

Skinner's contract termination comes at a critical time for the Sharks, who are looking to reshape their roster ahead of the trade deadline. The move frees up cap space and roster flexibility for the team as they evaluate their options.

The details

Skinner, who has been with the Sharks for the past few seasons, expressed that he felt he was contributing positively to the team in his recent games. However, the Sharks and Skinner have decided to mutually terminate his contract, allowing him to potentially sign with another NHL team.

  • The Sharks placed Skinner on unconditional waivers on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The NHL trade deadline is less than three weeks away.

The players

Jeff Skinner

A veteran forward who has played for the San Jose Sharks for the past few seasons.

San Jose Sharks

An NHL team based in San Jose, California.

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What they’re saying

“I think the last few games I played, I feel like I was contributing positively to the team.”

— Jeff Skinner (The Mercury News)

What’s next

If Skinner is not claimed by another NHL team by Tuesday, the contract termination will be finalized, allowing him to potentially sign with a new team before the trade deadline.

The takeaway

The Sharks' decision to mutually terminate Skinner's contract highlights the team's efforts to reshape their roster and create more flexibility ahead of the upcoming NHL trade deadline.