Edmonton Oilers strangely leave out one player in end of year message

Even worse, Oilers insider Jim Matheson has recently reported that there's no interest from other NHL teams in signing the 33 year old sniper. At this point, his future in the NHL is up in the air entirely.

The Edmonton Oilers then shared a routine end-of-year message thanking all their players who will be leaving the team, but left out Jeff Skinner.

Obviously the Oilers social media team doesn't know anything about coming roster moves, but it's curious to see Skinner excluded. Derek Ryan hasn't signed with another team and hasn't formally retired, although it's been heavily implied.

Some fans believe this could mean the door isn't entirely closed to Jeff Skinner actually re-signing with the Edmonton Oilers.

Given the fact that Skinner never found a lineup fit with the Oilers and only played 5 playoff games, it's been heavily implied he won't return.

After recent free agency signings and overseas additions expected next year, frankly there's just no room for Skinner in the lineup again next season.

With dwindling opportunities and a market for a slower snipers around the NHL, Jeff Skinner may have to take a tryout offer near training camp to work his way back into the league. It's unfortunate he wasn't able to find his game with the Oilers, and now, he'll have a much harder chance battling back.

Still only 33 years old with over 1078 games played and 373 goals, some team will surely take a chance on Jeff Skinner.