McKenzie: Skinner “very close” to signing monster eight year contract

According to a report from NHL insider Bob McKenzie of TSN, the Buffalo Sabres and Jeff Skinner are “very close” to agreeing on a brand new, eight year contract.

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McKenzie goes on to say that the eight year deal will come with a $9 million cap hit, totalling $72 million.

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Ouch… dollars AND term? That’s a steep price to pay…

No doubt that the 27 year old Skinner is a valuable player, he put up a career high 40 goals and 63 points in his first season with the Sabres in 2018-19, after coming over in an offseason trade with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Skinner’s six year contract that comes with a $5.75 million cap hit expires on June 30th and he’s eligible to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent on July 1st.