Justin Schultz decision not to sign an entry-level deal with the Anaheim Ducks when he completed college last spring set off a free agent frenzy typically reserved for NHL star veterans. Schultz eventually signed with the Edmonton Oilers, but because of the lockout he was forced to start the season with the team's American League affiliate in Oklahoma City.

The gawdy numbers he put up in the AHL only added to the hype surrounding the young defenseman. And now that the NHL season is in full swing, Oilers fans are ecstatic to see him playing up to their lofty expectations.

THN’s Ryan Kennedy caught up with 22-year-old to talk about his first year as a professional.

REPORTER: Ryan Kennedy | PRODUCER: Ted Cooper