Veteran Winger Jeff Skinner Becomes Free Agent After Sharks Terminate Contract

The move provides the rebuilding Sharks with roster and cap flexibility ahead of the trade deadline.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The San Jose Sharks have terminated the contract of veteran winger Jeff Skinner, making him an unrestricted free agent. The team placed Skinner on unconditional waivers, citing the need to manage its roster size and cap space as it continues its rebuild. Skinner, who has over 1,100 NHL games played, is now free to sign with a new team, likely at a reduced salary.

Why it matters

The Sharks' decision to terminate Skinner's contract is part of their larger rebuilding efforts, as they look to create opportunities for younger players and gain roster and financial flexibility. This move highlights the growing trend of teams utilizing contract terminations to manage their cap situations and rosters, particularly as the trade deadline approaches.

The details

Skinner, who was set to earn $3 million this season, had struggled to produce, recording just 6 goals and 13 points in 32 games. With the Sharks at the 50-contract limit, the team decided to clear Skinner's cap hit and open up a roster spot. The timing suggests other teams expressed interest in Skinner, but not at his current salary, leading the Sharks to terminate his contract rather than try to facilitate a trade.

  • The Sharks terminated Skinner's contract on February 17, 2026.

The players

Jeff Skinner

A veteran winger with over 1,100 NHL games played, Skinner has been an unrestricted free agent since the Sharks terminated his contract.

San Jose Sharks

The NHL team that terminated Skinner's contract as part of their ongoing rebuild, creating roster and cap flexibility.

Vincent Iorio

A player recently claimed by the Rangers, which contributed to the Sharks' decision to terminate Skinner's contract as they were at the 50-contract limit.

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What’s next

Several potential landing spots have been discussed for Skinner, with teams looking for scoring depth. The appeal lies in acquiring a player who has consistently demonstrated offensive capabilities throughout his career, even if recent production has dipped.

The takeaway

The Sharks' move with Skinner is part of a larger trend of teams utilizing contract terminations to manage their cap space and roster flexibility, particularly as they approach the trade deadline. This strategy allows teams to create opportunities for younger players and pursue more targeted acquisitions without having to give up valuable assets in unfavorable trades.