“We want to thank Jeff for his contributions to the organization, and wish him all the best,” Sharks general manager Mike Grier said in a statement.
The 33-year-old forward signed a one-year, $3 million deal with San Jose before the season but struggled to find consistent production, recording six goals and seven assists in 32 games.
Skinner, a former Calder Trophy winner in 2011 as the NHL’s top rookie with the Carolina Hurricanes, has had a prolific career, scoring at least 30 goals in six different seasons. He also reached a career milestone last season by playing in the postseason for the first time, suiting up for the Edmonton Oilers.
With his departure from San Jose, Skinner now enters free agency, leaving open the possibility of joining another NHL team as a veteran presence and scoring threat.