Former Seattle Kraken defenseman Justin Schultz has signed a one-year contract with HC Lugano in Switzerland.
As reported recently, Justin Schultz was searching for a unique opportunity in the later stages of his career. He’s found that with HC Lugano in Switzerland and signed a contract for the remainder of the year.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 23, 2024
The 34-year-old will be playing in Europe for the first time in his career after spending 12 seasons in the NHL. In those 12 seasons, Schultz scored 71 goals and 324 points in 745 games. He spent his career with the Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals and the Kraken, winning two Stanley Cups with the Penguins.
Schultz was a part of the Kraken organization for two seasons, registering 143 games, 14 goals and 60 points.
It was reported that Schultz was looking for a unique opportunity in the later stages of his career and playing in the NL with HC Lugano provided him that chance.
“Justin is a two-way defenseman,” said Lugano GM and former NHLer Hnat Domenichelli. “We are confident that his experience will help us during the second part of the season.”
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The Kelowna, BC native was taken in the second round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, 43rd overall, by the Anaheim Ducks. However, he instead opted to attend the University of Wisconsin and after three years in the NCAA, signed as a free agent with the Oilers in 2012.
Schultz was once an offensive force from the blue line and was an important piece to many teams including the Kraken.
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