Justin Schultz Makes Sudden Huge Decision on Career

Two-time Stanley Cup winner and 12-year veteran Justin Schultz couldn't land a suitable NHL job this past offseason as a UFA, so he headed to Europe for a "unique opportunity" to play this year. That lasted all of eight games, and now the 34-year-old has decided to call it quits on his hockey career.

Justin Schultz retires from hockey having played 248 games for the #oilers between 2012 and 2016. He scored 28-73-101 and registered 2 GWG as an Oiler. Congratulations on the great career Justin. #onceanoiler https://t.co/v483cEvaie
— Oilers Top 50 stats (@50Oilers) December 13, 2024

Schultz played the last two seasons with the Seattle Kraken, but went through the summer without a suitable taker on the NHL free agent market, and decided to take up Lugano of the top Swiss League on their offer.

But it just wasn't to be.

"My decision is entirely personal,” Schultz said in a release from the team. “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."

Former NHLer Jordan Schmaltz had an interesting take on Schultz's foray to Europe and why it went south:

Folks, a well respected #NHL veteran and 2 time Stanley Cup winner Justin Schultz has called it quits in Europe. The 34 year old lasted all of 8 games in the Fondue League 🇨🇭 before lighting his entire hockey bag on fire cremating it and throwing it into the heavenly waters of…
— Jordan Schmaltz (@J_Swish24) December 13, 2024

"When your career earnings are north of 42 million and you strictly went to Europe to “travel” and play hockey on the side, you quickly realize after checking your Chase bank app you definitely can just travel without putting up with the day-to-day bullsh*t of European Hockey," wrote Schmaltz.

In any case, Schultz leaves behind a solid career on the blueline, winning two Cups in the middle of the last decade with the Pittsburgh Penguins, while averaging 20 minutes of ice time with the Pens across four+ seasons there.

He was a top-four D in his first three seasons in the league with the Edmonton Oilers.

Schultz finishes his NHL career with a solid resume as a puck-moving defenseman, in 745 games registering 71 goals and 253 assists for 324 points. He added another 42 points in 81 career playoff games.

Best of luck to Schultz in retirement.