In recent years, Jeff Skinner’s professional hockey career has had many turns, starting with a strong showing with the Hurricanes, then being bought out in Buffalo, then having a second opportunity in Edmonton, and finally having a short and disappointing time in San Jose. The experienced attacker has now taken a totally different path by joining the Swiss National League team EHC Biel.
The team confirmed on August 14 that Skinner had signed a deal that would last until the end of April 2027.
Skinner’s trek to Switzerland started earlier this year when the San Jose Sharks put him on unconditional waivers, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. The 33-year-old had only scored six goals and 13 points in 32 games on a one-year, $3 million contract at the time.
Skinner was free to sign with any team after his contract was canceled. There was no offer made by an NHL team that resulted in a spot on the roster, which left the door open for a transfer to another country.
Skinner is financially far from desperate. He still receives a sizable salary from his 2024 buyout from the Buffalo Sabres, with a reported $6.4 million due this season and additional payments extending until 2030. That financial safety net probably allowed him to select a location based on fit and chance rather than only on economic factors.
Skinner is clearly seen by EHC Biel, a three-time Swiss winner, as a significant addition. He was characterized as an “NHL star” in the club’s social media announcement, indicating the enthusiasm around his entry in Bienne.
For Skinner, the move signifies a fresh beginning in a cutthroat European league, following over ten years in the NHL. During his heyday with the Carolina Hurricanes, he was a consistent 30-goal scorer, and during the 2018–19 season, he scored 40 goals, which was a career high. Nevertheless, his production had drastically decreased in recent seasons, making an NHL return less and less probable.
EHC Biel’s contract, which lasts through April 2027, indicates that they are putting their faith in Skinner for more than just a short audition. Whether this is his last NHL attempt or just a European detour before one remains to be seen.
Skinner appears prepared to embrace Swiss hockey and contribute his expertise to a team that is eager to contend for championships in the National League.
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