Edmonton Oilers make subtle announcement on future of Jeff Skinner

Skinner has remained unsigned more than a week into free agency after a tough season with the Oilers. There was some speculation he could return when the Oilers didn't thank Skinner in a departing message, but now they've essentially confirmed it.

According to a new release from the Edmonton Oilers, Howard will wear number 53 next season - last worn by Jeff Skinner last year. Unless the 1000+ game NHL veteran is giving up his number to a rookie, it looks like confirmation Skinner is gone.

It was heavily expected that Skinner would leave after being a heathy scratch for most of the playoffs, and a fourth liner for the regular season. However, it is surprising to see there's no interest from other NHL teams in taking on the veteran sniper as a reclamation project.

And funny enough, Isaac Howard has drawn some comparisons to Jeff Skinner for their style of play. Howard is a shifty winger with an exceptional shot, but now is a much faster skater than Skinner.

Where Howard does struggle is engaging with physical plays along the walls, and in front of the net. He'll need to show far more willingness to go into the corners, or he won't see much NHL ice time at all.

However, if everything goes right, perhaps the Oilers are picking up a younger version of Jeff Skinner that could be a better fit in their lineup next season.