Jeff Skinner’s 15-year wait for playoff hockey is finally over.
The Edmonton Oilers forward clinched his first-ever NHL playoff spot Friday night after his team beat the San Jose Sharks 4-2.
It’s been a long time coming for the veteran player – longer than anyone else in NHL history, actually. By the time Skinner takes the ice for his playoff debut later this month, he’ll have played in more than 1,075 regular-season games without seeing postseason action.
Think about that for a second. That’s 15 seasons of showing up, putting in the work, and watching other teams compete for the Stanley Cup while he packed up for summer.
“It’s pretty special,” Skinner said after the game, trying to hold back a smile. “You play this game to compete for the Cup, and I’ve waited a long time for this chance.”
The previous record for most regular-season games before a playoff appearance wasn’t even close to Skinner’s mark.
For the 31-year-old forward, this moment marks more than just a personal milestone. It’s a chance to finally chase hockey’s ultimate prize after spending his entire career watching the playoffs from home.
The Oilers, currently one of the hottest teams in the NHL, look like they might give Skinner a real shot at making this long-awaited playoff debut count.
