Forward Jeff Skinner has officially cleared unconditional waivers and is now an unrestricted free agent, according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. The move confirms that the Buffalo Sabres will proceed with a buyout of the remaining three years of Skinner's contract.
Skinner, 32, was placed on waivers Sunday afternoon for the purpose of a buyout. By clearing the wire on Monday, he is now eligible to sign a new contract with any of the other 31 NHL franchises immediately. The buyout will result in Buffalo paying out two-thirds of the remaining $27 million owed to the winger, with the cap hit spread over the next six seasons.
During the 2023-24 season, Jeff Skinner recorded 24 goals and 22 assists for 46 points in 74 games. While his production saw a decrease from his 82-point performance the year prior, he remains a high-end scoring threat who has reached the 30-goal plateau six times during his 14-year NHL career.
The veteran winger spent six seasons with the Buffalo Sabres after being acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes in 2018. He now enters the open market as one of the most prominent offensive players available ahead of the free agency period.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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