Skinner Becomes UFA After Mutual Contract Termination with Sharks

The 33-year-old winger was placed on waivers and had his contract terminated by the San Jose Sharks.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Jeff Skinner is now an unrestricted free agent after the San Jose Sharks placed the 33-year-old winger on waivers on Monday for the purposes of contract termination. Skinner cleared waivers on Tuesday, and the two sides mutually agreed to terminate his one-year, $3 million contract that he signed with the Sharks over the summer. The Sharks are gaining roster flexibility with the move, while Skinner is hoping to find a new NHL home.

Why it matters

Skinner is a six-time 30-goal scorer in the NHL, so his availability as a UFA could be of interest to teams looking to add scoring depth. The Sharks, meanwhile, are clearing roster and contract space as they look to make moves ahead of the trade deadline.

The details

Skinner was signed by the Sharks over the summer in the hopes that he could rediscover his goal-scoring touch. However, he struggled this season, recording just 6 goals and 13 points in 32 games. Skinner had been a healthy scratch for 10 consecutive games before the two sides agreed to terminate his contract.

  • On February 18, 2026, the Sharks placed Skinner on waivers for the purposes of contract termination.
  • On February 19, 2026, Skinner cleared waivers and had his contract with the Sharks mutually terminated, making him an unrestricted free agent.

The players

Jeff Skinner

A 33-year-old winger who was signed by the San Jose Sharks to a one-year, $3 million contract in the offseason.

Mike Grier

The general manager of the San Jose Sharks.

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What they’re saying

“We want to thank Jeff for his contributions to the organization, and wish him all the best.”

— Mike Grier, General Manager, San Jose Sharks (Team Press Release)

“I'm aware of the roster situation. I'm aware of the amount of young guys here, and sort of where I fit in the big picture. Again, I'm not in control that. So, I just come to practice, and practice. Things go on like that between managers or agents. I think as a player, I just worry about playing or practicing.”

— Jeff Skinner (San Jose Hockey Now)

What’s next

Skinner will now become an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any NHL team. The Sharks have gained roster flexibility with the termination of his contract, which could allow them to make a move ahead of the March 6 trade deadline.

The takeaway

This move highlights the challenges veteran players can face in the NHL, as Skinner was unable to regain his scoring touch with the Sharks this season. However, his availability as a UFA could make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add scoring depth for a playoff push.