New Edmonton Oiler projected to take massive leap forward next season

The Oilers signed Skinner to a one-year, $3M contract this summer after he was bought out from his $9.25M deal with the Buffalo Sabres. Skinner didn't bring the value of that lofty salary anymore, but he has the offensive skill that warranted the deal. Through his 1000 game career, Skinner has scored 40 goals once and over 30 goals 5 times. Two years ago, Skinner scored 82 points in 79 games.

Last year was a down season with only 24 goals and 46 points, but betting companies are expecting Skinner to take a massive leap forward judging by their highly-studied odds. Next season, Skinner's projected point total has increased to 65 points, nearly 20 more than he scored last season.

There's real precedent for a new Oiler to seriously increase their scoring too. When Zach Hyman began riding along with Connor McDavid, he posted new offensive highs late into his career. Jeff Skinner might not score 50 like Zach Hyman, but he will be able to unleash his elite shot off passes from Leon Draisaitl. If everything goes well and Draisaitl has a career year, Skinner could see a great offensive year. It's unlikely he'll get primary power play time though, which may keep his point totals lower than expected.

There's many reasons to believe that Skinner could elevate his game this season and be a real difference maker for the Oilers. In his 1000 game career, this will be his first opportunity at the playoffs, which has certainly stirred a hunger inside him. However even if he doesn't pan out, it's not an awful contract like Jack Campbell or Darnell Nurse - it's only for one year, at a low salary of $3M.

Plenty of hockey fans from across the NHL will be cheering for the veteran next season, and Oilers fans should easily be able to get behind him. One thing is for sure - the league's best offence last year got a whole lot better, and that's should be a problem for every other NHL team.

Source: HockeyDB - Jeff Skinner