The 2024 NHL free-agent class is beginning to dwindle down as we’re over every week since free company opened and there is solely a choose few NHL regulars who remained unsigned. Offensive defenseman Justin Schultz is likely one of the many free-agents nonetheless looking for a contract for subsequent season. 

The 34-year-old blueliner is coming off a 26-point season with the Seattle Kraken. Schultz has proven he can nonetheless be a reliable depth defenseman who may help out on the facility play. He is hit 50 factors in his profession and in the fitting state of affairs, taking part in the correct amount of minutes, can nonetheless be efficient at his age due to his skating talents and hockey sense.

Here is three groups who might take a flyer on the veteran blueliner:

San Jose Sharks

The Sharks are going to be an thrilling workforce to observe subsequent season they usually at the moment have a necessity for an additional defenseman on their NHL roster. GM Mike Grier is dedicated to the longer term however he additionally is aware of he wants some veterans to indicate the younger core the ropes of the NHL. Schultz can step in and play on the Sharks second energy play and be capable to deal with minutes within the backside pair. The Sharks have a lot of cap house left and do not count on to see far more than a league minimal deal signed as soon as Schultz lands a brand new dwelling.

Utah HC

Utah upgraded their protection core immensely this summer time nevertheless they do nonetheless have a necessity for a 6/7 man and somebody who is correct handed. Schultz might be an possibility for them and do not rule out seeing the veteran defenseman signal knowledgeable tryout settlement to land himself an invitation to coaching camp. It may come from Utah later this summer time.

Buffalo Sabres

picture credit score:  Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports activities