Skinner can't get into the lineup, and when he does, it's as a depth player on a line ill-suited to his ability.

Without another 30-goal threat in the lineup and ample cap space now and in the future, the Sabres could afford to pay up to keep Skinner, who was a perfect fit with the franchise last season.

Brown's quality play has earned the 31 year old a raise on his $1M salary the Oilers may not be able to afford, while Jeff Skinner would likely look for a fresh start after a tough year in Edmonton.

Advertisement That has to turn around. Now. Meanwhile, Edmonton winger Jeff Skinner has been performing well since Jan. 1, scoring and outscoring at impressive levels at five-on-five. So ...