Jeff Skinner hasn’t had the best experience with the Edmonton Oilers this season, and despite being floated in trade rumours, GM Stan Bowman has now said he has no interest in trading the veteran sniper.
When Skinner was routinely being benched and healthy scratched, reports surfaced that the he may be open to waiving his no-move clause for a fresh start elsewhere.
Stan Bowman shuts down Jeff Skinner trade rumours in new interview
Speaking to the Athletic in a new interview released today, Oilers GM Stan Bowman said he doesn’t believe he’ll ask Skinner to waive his no-move clause.
I don’t envision that being the case. He’s shown the real willingness to work through things with our group, and I commend him on that. He’s had a really great attitude the entire time I suppose things can always change, but that’s not the focus right now for Jeff.
– Stan Bowman
Jeff Skinner hasn’t produced to expectations so far this season, with only 10 goals and 20 points in 49 games. Signing him after the buyout from Buffalo, there was a hope that Skinner could rekindle his point per game pace in Edmonton.
Earlier this season, Skinner directly denied any thoughts about waiving his no-move clause to leave Edmonton – he wants to stick with the Oilers through the rest of the year entirely.
“I’m committed to being here. I’m happy to be an Oiler.”
– Jeff Skinner
Jeff Skinner turning around his year, gets vote of confidence from GM Stan Bowman
To his credit, Jeff Skinner has stuck with working hard through the benchings, and has earned a promotion up to the second line recently.
Skinner’s made good on the opportunity too, with a few consistent good games and 4 points in his last 5 games, including a beautiful goal against the Blackhawks. If he can continue this play next to Leon Draisaitl, it may give the Oilers top 6 another huge scoring threat.
