One notable former Edmonton Oilers defenceman is calling it a career at age 34.
Justin Schultz, who played this season with Switzerland’s HC Lugano, announced his departure from the team—and his pro hockey career—after playing just eight games.
“Justin Schultz has informed the club of his decision to end his career immediately due to personal reasons and return to Canada,” the club wrote in a release.
Schultz had six assists this year with Lugano.
“My decision is entirely personal. After discussions with my family, I’ve decided to retire and return to Canada. I thank Hockey Club Lugano for their professionalism and respect for my decision, and I wish the club and the team the best in regaining success,” Schultz wrote.
Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the second round in 2008, Schultz eventually signed with Edmonton after being unable to come to terms on a contract with them following three years at the University of Wisconsin.
He had a breakout AHL season as a rookie with the Oklahoma City Barons, then the farm team of the Edmonton Oilers. Playing alongside Jordan Eberle and Taylor Hall for parts of the season, Schultz put up an electric 48 points in just 34 games and seemed set to be a future anchor of Edmonton’s backend for years to come.
While that didn’t quite come to fruition, he still managed to have quite a productive NHL career, suiting up for 745 games. Outside of his four seasons in Edmonton, he also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, and Seattle Kraken up until last season.
Schultz found pretty immediate success in Pittsburgh, winning two Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017 after a midseason trade from the Oilers. His most productive NHL campaign came in 2016-17, putting up 51 points with the Penguins in his first full year with the franchise.
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