Sharks Free Agent Targets: Justin Schultz

San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier could be in the market to add another defenseman, and the addition of a puck-moving blueliner like Justin Schultz should be a target.

San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier could be in the market to add another defenseman, and the addition of a puck-moving blueliner like Justin Schultz should be a target.

Schultz, 34, has played for the Seattle Kraken the past two seasons. Even though his offensive numbers don't jump off the page, 34 points in 22-23 and 26 points last season, Schultz has remained a solid powerplay producer. 

Ten of his 26 points came on the man advantage last season. Schultz averaged 16:28 per game and 2:22 on the powerplay.

San Jose added Jake Walman as part of the defense's restructure. Walman has a powerful shot, and Schultz could provide the puck-moving ability Walman isn't as known for. The return of Ty Emberson will help the breakouts, but the team never gave him a look on the powerplay.

With young prospects like Will Smith and Macklin Celebrini expected to take charge as the Sharks' primary offensive production in the future, building confidence in the man advantage is critical for their offensive development. Schultz has played with Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, and Matty Beniers. 

Beniers is a better comparison to Smith and Celebrini due to their age and draft position. Beniers couldn't match his rookie season point production, but he scored three more powerplay points in year two (13) than in year one (10).

Grier has said that the Sharks' heavy lifting in free agency is likely over, but signing a player like Schultz fits that thinking. Grier hasn't said that he is done making business, and while the return of Emberson and the possibility that Shakir Mukhamadullin both play on the blue line to start the season is nice, adding another veteran body with proven puck-moving skills remains a need.

Schultz is coming off a two-year $6 million contract and likely won't be signed for as much. His production hasn't warranted a raise.

Schultz is a cheap defenseman who can provide some experience as a two-time Stanley Cup Champion for a young San Jose Sharks roster. 

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