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Could the Toronto Maple Leafs Capitalize on a Bad Situation?


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Marshall Stinson
February 16, 2026  (3:06 PM)
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San Jose Sharks left wing Jeff Skinner (53) skates against Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Colton Sissons (10) during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose.
Photo credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

The San Jose Sharks made some big news today, with a contract termination for Jeff Skinner, it was a mutual decision, and Skinner will now become a free agent, which could allow for the Toronto Maple Leafs to pick him up for a bargain.

Skinner could prove to be a good depth piece for next season, as he has shown in the past that he can score goals.

Jeff Skinner looks for a new home.

It was recently announced on instagram that the two parties have mutually agreed to part ways. Leaving Skinner without a team, and bound to get some interest from across the league.
The San Jose Sharks have agreed to a mutual contract termination with Jeff Skinner, per @friedgehnic.
Skinner, 33, had six goals, 13 points through 32 games played with San Jose this season.
While the Leafs could be good suitors for Skinner, the contending teams might be more in the market for him. The Colorado Avalanche will definitely be giving his agent a call, as they would like to add some depth scoring.
As well as the Minnesota Wild, who do not have left to trade after the Quinn Hughes deal, meaning they could go and sign Skinner on a league minimum. And the Wild are the contending team the most in need for some added depth on the forward front.
Skinner's best season was in 2022-2023 with the Buffalo Sabres where he scored 82 points in 79 games, he has since sharply declined year after year, but a new team could extract more offence out of him. The Leafs might be able to acquire him, despite some stiffer competition reaching out to him.
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FEVRIER 16|357 ANSWERS
Could the Toronto Maple Leafs Capitalize on a Bad Situation?

Should the Toronto Maple Leafs try to sign Jeff Skinner?

Yes14741.2 %
No21058.8 %
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