Jeff Skinner, now with the Edmonton Oilers, is set to make his long-awaited playoff debut after over 1,078 games in the NHL. His journey has been marked by years without playoff action, first with the Carolina Hurricanes and then with the Buffalo Sabres. After signing with Edmonton, Skinner expressed excitement about contributing to a playoff-contending team. He acknowledges the challenge of remaining hopeful each season, even during extended playoff droughts, and is finally looking forward to experiencing the thrill of postseason hockey.

During the regular season, Skinner scored 16 goals and 13 assists in 72 games, a dip from his previous high of 82 points with the Sabres. Oilers' captain Connor McDavid celebrated his playoff berth, recognizing the uniqueness of Skinner's situation. Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch noted that Skinner's performance improved throughout the season, and the team is eager to build momentum as they head into the postseason.