Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers are officially heading to the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs after a 4-2 win over the San Jose Sharks on Friday night at Rogers Place. With a record of 46-28-5 and 97 points, the Oilers have locked in at least the third seed in the Pacific Division. That outcome narrows the Calgary Flames’ playoff hopes to a wild card spot. McDavid led the way with a four-assist performance, powering Edmonton to the postseason.
Although Jeff Skinner didn’t record a point in the win, it was still a historic night for the 32-year-old forward. With the Oilers clinching a playoff berth, Skinner is finally heading to the postseason for the first time in his NHL career—after 1,075 games played.
Drafted seventh overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2010—the same year Taylor Swift released her “Speak Now” album—Skinner has long been a known fan of the pop superstar. In fact, back in 2013, he gifted Swift a signed Hurricanes jersey. His journey in the NHL began with eight seasons in Carolina, followed by six years with the Buffalo Sabres. Ironically, Carolina returned to the playoffs the season after trading Skinner, while Buffalo hasn’t reached the postseason since his rookie year.
Now with Edmonton on a one-year, $3 million deal, Skinner has tallied 16 goals and 12 assists across 69 games this season—and finally has a playoff appearance to add to his résumé.
Leave a Reply