Oilers Coach Makes Another Gutsy Decision With Forward Jeff Skinner

This decision has been fueled by speculation over the past couple of weeks as Skinner's performance has not lived up to the Oilers expectations.

Skinner is currently the second worst in the Oilers plus minus column and has not performed offensively let alone defensively based on the salary he was given earlier last summer.

Former interim general manager and now President Jeff Jackson had signed Skinner in the off season as part of his vision of increased offense and veteran leadership that would help the Oilers into the following season.

This has not been the case and has questioned the signing altogether. Skinner currently holds a one-year deal that holds $3,000,000 AAV.

He also holds a no movement clause which means the team would need to approach him if another organization would like to acquire him by the trade deadline.

Recently, Oilers insider Kurt Leavins in the Edmonton Journal suggested that Skinner may need a firm push out of the organization.

The 32-year-old forward was selected by the Carolina Hurricanes back in 2010, in the first round, 7th pick overall.

Skinner spent seven seasons with the Hurricanes until 2018 when he was signed by the Buffalo Sabres with hope like what the Oilers had when it came to his game.

The Oilers have worked hard with Skinner including head coach Kris Knoblauch to attempt to revive his game and give the Oilers a player they need.

But it's safe to say that trust is not there and it's time the Oilers look at another teammate whether it's in Bakersfield or within their roster to step up and replace Skinner.

It remains to be seen on how long he would remain out of the lineup but for the time being the team needs to make the change.