The San Jose Sharks announced that veteran forward Jeff Skinner cleared waivers Tuesday. The team waived him Monday in what both sides called a mutual decision.
Skinner, 33, signed a one-year, $3 million contract with San Jose before this season.
“We want to thank Jeff for his contributions to the organization, and wish him all the best,” Sharks general manager Mike Grier said in a statement.
The pending unrestricted free agent recorded six goals and seven assists in 32 games this season. That’s a significant drop from his career production levels.
Skinner won the Calder Trophy in 2011 as the NHL’s top rookie while playing for the Carolina Hurricanes.
He’s scored at least 30 goals six times during his career. Last season marked his first playoff appearance when he suited up for the Edmonton Oilers.
The move gives Skinner flexibility to sign with any team. It also provides the Sharks salary cap relief as they continue their rebuild.
San Jose sits near the bottom of the league standings this season. The organization has been focused on developing younger players and managing their cap space carefully.
