3 reasons why trading Jeff Skinner would make sense for the Sabres

On the surface, a potential Jeff Skinner trade might seem unlikely to many Sabres fans, and their skepticism is valid. Skinner’s performance has been inconsistent since signing a lucrative contract in 2019, but he has shown improvement, especially in the 2021-22 season. Initially, after his impressive 40-goal, 63-point season, Skinner struggled with only 37 points and 21 goals in the following 112 games, making his contract appear unfavorable.

However, in the subsequent 233 games, Skinner significantly improved with 191 points and 92 goals, culminating in a career-best 82-point season in 2022-23. Despite his improved productivity, there are reasons why trading Skinner in 2024 could make sense for the Sabres. It is important to note that while there are valid arguments against such a trade, exploring different perspectives is valuable.

Skinner’s contract includes a no-movement clause, requiring his approval for any trade. This clause provides reassurance for fans who wish to retain Skinner, but it also offers flexibility if Skinner believes a change of scenery would benefit him and the team. Speculatively, trading Skinner could create opportunities for younger talent to step up in the lineup.

By trading Skinner, the Sabres could open up cap space for more consistent talent. Despite Skinner’s recent improvements, his performance in his age-31 season was not as steady, finishing behind other players in points. Trading Skinner, even with salary retention, would free up cap space for potential acquisitions of more reliable forwards, enhancing the team’s overall performance.

A Skinner trade could facilitate long-term financial planning for the Sabres.

By saving money through a trade, the team could invest in extending contracts for promising young players like JJ Peterka, Jack Quinn, and Zach Benson, securing their core for the future. This strategic move would allow the Sabres to navigate upcoming contract negotiations and potentially strengthen their roster with sustainable talent.

In conclusion, while there are valid considerations both for and against trading Skinner, exploring the potential benefits of such a move can provide insights into the Sabres’ roster development and financial planning strategies.