Adams, Sabers GM: No decision yet on Jeff Skinner buyout

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Sabres have not yet made a decision on the buyout of Jeff Skinner.

Those were the words spoken directly by general manager Kevyn Adams in Las Vegas Thursday, during a meeting with reporters on the eve of the NHL draft.

Buffalo has until Sunday at 5 p.m. ET to decide whether or not to buy out Skinner’s contract, and according to Adams, the team is still in communication with Skinner’s camp and discussing all options.

“Everything is on the table,” Adams said. “We’re going to look at every scenario, whether it’s trade opportunities to improve our team, or who’s in free agency. Those are things we’re looking at and juggling. No final decisions have been made on Jeff yet. … We’re not there yet. We can still continue to see how this all plays out.”

After putting up 82 points last season, the now 32-year-old forward saw a significant drop-off in his production last year, posting 46 points in 74 games.

Skinner has three years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $9 million. The Sabres would save about $7.5 million if the team bought out Skinner, but he would carry a cap hit over the next six seasons, ranging from just over $1,444,445 in year one; to $4,444,445 in year two and $6,444,445 in year three; to $2,444,445 in year three.

“What are some potential trades that we think could make our team better?” Adams said of what the team must consider. “If we made a move, where does Jeff fit him in our lineup? Jeff has been an elite scorer in this league for a long time, but if he’s not going to play a big-time, first-minute type role, where do you put a player like that? Is that kind of all you weigh? Like I said, we’re actively involved in those conversations internally and externally and we still have time to make our final decision.”

Adams also added that there was no indication Skinner would waive his no-movement clause if traded.

“There has been honest communication, but there’s no indication that they’re willing to look at this. All you can do is have honest conversations and explain some of the situations that might arise, and we’ve done that, but I wouldn’t say there’s been any kind of traction or movement,” Adams said.

Whatever happens with Skinner, Adams said the decision will be made with an eye toward improving the team for the 2023-24 season.

“We underperformed last year as a group,” he said. “We have to make tough decisions throughout our training. We have to find ways to improve, and every decision we make this offseason does so with that in mind and that will be part of the process we go through with Jeff. »