Justin Schultz
{{Short description|Canadian ice hockey player (born 1990)}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=February 2016}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox ice hockey player
| name = Justin Schultz
| image = Justin Schultz 2 23-3.jpg
| image_size =
| caption = Schultz with the Seattle Kraken in 2023
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1990|7|6}}
| birth_place = Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 2
| weight_lb = 185
| position = Defence
| shoots = Right
| league = NL
| team =
| prospect_team =
| prospect_league =
| played_for = {{ubl|Edmonton Oilers|Pittsburgh Penguins|Washington Capitals|Seattle Kraken|HC Lugano}}
| ntl_team = CAN
| draft = 43rd overall
| draft_year = 2008
| draft_team = Anaheim Ducks
| career_start = 2012
| career_end = 2024
}}
Justin Schultz (born July 6, 1990) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, and Seattle Kraken, as well as in the National League for HC Lugano. Schultz won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Penguins in 2016 and 2017.
Schultz was born in Kelowna, British Columbia, and grew up in the nearby City of West Kelowna. Growing up in Kelowna, Schultz played three seasons of Junior A ice hockey with the Westside Warriors of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). During his rookie season with the Warriors, he began to draw interest from hockey scouts and was named on the NHL Central Scouting Bureau's rankings. Schultz was eventually drafted 43rd overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2008 NHL entry draft.
Following the BCHL, Schultz played Division 1 collegiate hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers men's ice hockey team at the University of Wisconsin for three years. He had a successful collegiate career where he set numerous program records. He became the third player in WCHA history to win two WCHA Defensive Player of the Year awards as he also became the first Badger defenseman to lead a team in goal scoring. As Schultz was unable to come to a contract agreement with the Ducks, he was heavily recruited by nearly all NHL teams following his junior year. He eventually chose to sign with the Edmonton Oilers on June 30, 2012, and remained with the organization for four seasons before being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016.
Playing career
=Amateur=
Schultz was born on July 6, 1990, in Kelowna, British Columbia{{cite web |title=Justin Schultz |url=https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/18241/justin-schultz |website=Elite Prospects |access-date=February 27, 2023 |archive-date=January 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230119221836/https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/18241/justin-schultz |url-status=live }} to parents Kim and Glenn.{{cite web |last1=Sachdeva |first1=Sonny |title=How Justin Schultz's junior-A dreams turned into back-to-back Cups |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/justin-schultz-west-kelowna-pittsburgh-penguins/ |work=Sportsnet |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 18, 2019 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228043020/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/justin-schultz-west-kelowna-pittsburgh-penguins/ |url-status=live }} Growing up in British Columbia, Schultz played three seasons of Junior A ice hockey with the Westside Warriors of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). He made his debut with the Warriors during the 2006–07 season after being called up from their midget double-A team. After scoring in his BCHL debut, Schultz returned to the Warriors full time for the 2007–08 season.{{cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Wayne |title=Schultz ready for next step |url=https://www.castanet.net/news/West-Kelowna/40006/Schultz-ready-for-next-step |work=Castanet |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=June 18, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041520/https://www.castanet.net/news/West-Kelowna/40006/Schultz-ready-for-next-step |url-status=live }} Through his first full season with the Warriors, Schultz was selected to participate in the Canadian Junior Hockey League Prospects Game.{{cite news |title=Clips not in prospect tilt |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865608/clips-not-in-prospect-tilt/ |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Nanaimo Daily News |date=November 30, 2007 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041519/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865608/clips-not-in-prospect-tilt/ |url-status=live }} He also began to draw interest from college team scouts and was named on the NHL Central Scouting Bureau's rankings. While enrolled at Mount Boucherie Senior Secondary School, Schultz committed to play Division 1 collegiate hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers men's ice hockey team at the University of Wisconsin. At the time of the commitment, he had accumulated eight goals and 26 assists through 50 games.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=New recruit offers defense, offense |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866928/new-recruit-offers-defense-offense/ |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=February 7, 2008 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041517/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866928/new-recruit-offers-defense-offense/ |url-status=live }} He finished the 2007–08 regular season with nine goals and 31 assists for 40 points through 57 games. As he finished second in scoring among defensemen in his conference, Schultz was named the conference’s Top Defenseman for 2008.{{cite web |title=Ducks Add Nine in Day 2 of the Draft |url=https://www.nhl.com/ducks/news/ducks-add-nine-in-day-2-of-the-draft/c-469366 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=June 21, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041519/https://www.nhl.com/ducks/news/ducks-add-nine-in-day-2-of-the-draft/c-469366 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |title=Schultz Awarded Interior Conference |url=https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-awarded-interior-conference |publisher=Westside Warriors |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=April 3, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041520/https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-awarded-interior-conference |url-status=live }}
Following his breakthrough rookie season, Schultz was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League (NHL) in the second round, 43rd overall, of the 2008 NHL entry draft. He subsequently partook in the Ducks' Rookie Camp before returning to the Warriors for the 2008–09 season.{{cite web |title=Ducks Rookie Camp Begins Friday |url=https://www.nhl.com/ducks/news/ducks-rookie-camp-begins-friday/c-469424 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=September 10, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041517/https://www.nhl.com/ducks/news/ducks-rookie-camp-begins-friday/c-469424 |url-status=dead}} Upon rejoining the Warriors, Schultz was selected to represent Team West at the 2008 World Junior A Challenge with whom he won a silver medal.{{cite web |title=Schultz and Canada West Take Silver @ WJAC |url=https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-and-canada-west-take-silver-wjac |publisher=Westside Warriors |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 10, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041521/https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-and-canada-west-take-silver-wjac |url-status=live }} Upon returning to the BCHL, Schultz was selected for the B.C. Hockey League's Interior Conference All Star team.{{cite web |title=Warriors Defensemen Named to All-star Team |url=https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-and-pritz-selected-to-play-in-bchl-allstar-game |publisher=Westside Warriors |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=December 4, 2008 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041520/https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/schultz-and-pritz-selected-to-play-in-bchl-allstar-game |url-status=live }} He finished his second season with the Warriors as the only BCHL defenseman to average a point per game with 25 goals and 25 assists for 50 points through 49 games. He was subsequently named the conference’s Top Defenseman for the second consecutive year.{{cite web |title=Warriors Blueliner Justin Schultz Wins Interiors Top Defenseman |url=https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/warriors-blueliner-justin-schultz-wins-interiors-top-defenseman |publisher=West Kelowna Warriors |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=February 26, 2009 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228041519/https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/warriors-blueliner-justin-schultz-wins-interiors-top-defenseman |url-status=live }}
=Collegiate=
Schultz played collegiate hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers men's ice hockey team of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), for three seasons before turning professional. During his tenure with the Badgers, he played in 121 games and scored 40 goals and 73 assists. In his freshman season with the Badgers, Schultz immediately made an impact on the team, alongside defensive partner Cody Goloubef, as he helped them become one of the conference's best power units.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Power |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866093/power/ |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=February 26, 2010 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054212/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866093/power/ |url-status=live }} The Badgers maintained a winning record of 6–3–1 as Schultz scored his first collegiate goal on November 13, 2009, in a 6–2 win over Alaska.{{cite web |title=Badgers freeze Anchorage |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2009/11/14/Badgers_freeze_Anchorage.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 14, 2009 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228045900/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2009/11/14/Badgers_freeze_Anchorage.aspx |url-status=live }} His play throughout the season helped lift the Badgers to the WCHA Final Five, the collective name for the quarterfinal, semifinal, and championship rounds.{{cite web |title=Badgers advance to Final Five after 7-2 win over UAA |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2010/3/13/Badgers_advance_to_Final_Five_after_7_2_win_over_UAA.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 13, 2010 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054210/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2010/3/13/Badgers_advance_to_Final_Five_after_7_2_win_over_UAA.aspx |url-status=live }} During this time, Schultz was named to the WCHA All-Rookie Team after he led all WCHA rookie defensemen with 16 points in league games.{{cite web |title=Six Badgers honored by WCHA |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2010/3/18/Six_Badgers_honored_by_WCHA.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=March 18, 2010 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054213/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2010/3/18/Six_Badgers_honored_by_WCHA.aspx |url-status=live }} Schultz and the Badgers eventually faced off against Boston College in the National Championship Game, which they lost 5–0.{{cite web |last1=Yerdon |first1=Joe |title=Boston College wins national championship |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2010/04/10/boston-college-wins-national-championship/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=April 10, 2010 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054209/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2010/04/10/boston-college-wins-national-championship/ |url-status=live }}
File:Justin Schultz (4472671246).jpg
Upon returning to Wisconsin for his sophomore season, Schultz was paired with Jake Gardiner as the team's top defensive pairing. As the Badgers began the season with a six-game winless streak, Schultz made an immediate impact on the ice by scoring a hat-trick in a 4–1 win over Michigan State in the College Hockey Showcase. He subsequently became the fifth defenseman in program history to score three goals in a game.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Schultz nets rare hat trick |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866877/schultz-nets-rare-hat-trick/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=November 28, 2010 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054212/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866877/schultz-nets-rare-hat-trick/ |url-status=live }} Following the hat trick, Schultz received the WCHA defensive player of the week honour while Gardiner received the offensive player of the week honour.{{cite news |title=Badgers duo earn WCHA honors |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119867035/badgers-duo-earn-wcha-honors/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=The Daily Tribune |date=December 1, 2010 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054216/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119867035/badgers-duo-earn-wcha-honors/ |url-status=live }} His two-way play helped him rank second on the team in scoring by early December and earmed him praise from teammates.{{cite news |last1=Nevala |first1=Matt |title=Schultz's two-way play propels Badgers to split |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866519/schultzs-two-way-play-propels-badgers/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=December 6, 2010 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054209/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866519/schultzs-two-way-play-propels-badgers/ |url-status=live }} At the conclusion of the regular season, Schultz earned numerous recognitions for his offensive and defensive abilities. As he finished the season leading all defensemen in goals and points, Schultz became the first sophomore to be named Defensive Player of the Year in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Schultz is No. 1 on defense |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865910/schultz-is-no-1-on-defense/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=March 11, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054210/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865910/schultz-is-no-1-on-defense/ |url-status=live }} He was also named to the WCHA First Team and AHCA First-Team All-American.{{cite news |title=Schultz, Gardiner named All-Americans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866440/schultz-gardiner-named-all-americans/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=April 9, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054214/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866440/schultz-gardiner-named-all-americans/ |url-status=live }} During his end of the season review with the UW coaching staff, he reiterated his commitment to return for his junior season.{{cite news |title=Badgers' Schultz feels rewarded |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866649/badgers-schultz-feels-rewarded/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Baraboo News Republic |date=April 1, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054211/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866649/badgers-schultz-feels-rewarded/ |url-status=live }}
File:Justin Schultz (5440379507).jpg
Schultz remained true to his commitment and returned to the Badgers for the 2011–12 season despite confusion from hockey pundits and Anaheim Ducks staff. He later stated that he returned to UW because he did not feel prepared enough to turn professional.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Cons outweighed pros |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865803/cons-outweighed-pros/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=September 30, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054210/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119865803/cons-outweighed-pros/ |url-status=live }} The Badgers squad for the 2011–12 season was the youngest under head coach Mike Eaves, as it was composed overwhelmingly of 11 sophomores and nine freshmen.{{cite news |title=Lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866237/lead/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=October 21, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054211/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866237/lead/ |url-status=live }} Upon rejoining the team, Schultz was named an assistant captain along with junior center Ryan Little.{{cite news |title=Lead roles cause a few early jitters |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866202/lead-roles-cause-a-few-early-jitters/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=October 21, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054213/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866202/lead-roles-cause-a-few-early-jitters/ |url-status=live }} In this new role, Schultz quickly continued his scoring prowess from the previous season as he led the team in scoring with five assists. Despite this, the Badger's powerplay struggled as they only scored 11% of the time. Schultz played the first five games of the season with Jake McCabe before the latter suffered an injury on October 21. Following the injury, Schultz found a steady defensive partner in Frankie Simonelli and they remained partners even when McCabe returned to the ice.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Simonelli meets perfect match |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866048/simonelli-meets-perfect-match/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=December 9, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054209/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866048/simonelli-meets-perfect-match/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Match |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119872667/match/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=December 9, 2011 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054212/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119872667/match/ |url-status=live }} The Badgers power play also improved as Schultz led all defensemen with nine goals and 28 points through 18 games, and ranked among the top three players in all of college hockey.{{cite web |title=He's Schultz, he scores |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2011/12/21/He_s_Schultz_he_scores.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=December 21, 2011 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054210/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2011/12/21/He_s_Schultz_he_scores.aspx |url-status=live }} By January, Schultz was in a three-way tie for the national scoring lead with 32 points as he tallied his 100th career point in a win over the RIT Tigers men's ice hockey.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=Schultz reaches century mark |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866391/schultz-reaches-century-mark/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Wisconsin State Journal |date=January 7, 2012 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228054209/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866391/schultz-reaches-century-mark/ |url-status=live }} His offensive abilities came as he averaged 30 to 25 minutes per game and accounted for 70 percent of goals scored for the Badgers. However, as the Badgers continued their lacklustre play, he openly considered the idea of leaving before the conclusion of the season and turning professional.{{cite news |last1=Baggot |first1=Andy |title=UW's Schultz returned for lackluster season |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866283/uws-schultz-returned-for-lackluster/ |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=The Reporter |date=February 17, 2012 |via=newspapers.com |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060857/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119866283/uws-schultz-returned-for-lackluster/ |url-status=live }} Schultz eventually chose to remain with the Badgers and he was soon chosen for the 2012 All-CHN First Team in March after he led all defensemen with 16 goals, 44 points, and a 1.19 points-per-game scoring average.{{cite web |title=Schultz on the All-CHN team |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/3/27/Schultz_on_the_All_CHN_team.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 27, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060912/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/3/27/Schultz_on_the_All_CHN_team.aspx |url-status=live }} Schultz also became the third player in WCHA history to win two WCHA Defensive Player of the Year awards.{{cite web |title=Schultz honored twice, Zengerle once as WCHA names all-league teams |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/3/8/Schultz_honored_twice_Zengerle_once_as_WCHA_names_all_league_teams.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 8, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060902/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/3/8/Schultz_honored_twice_Zengerle_once_as_WCHA_names_all_league_teams.aspx |url-status=live }} He was also named a 2012 First-Team All-WCHA defenseman and First-Team All-American.{{cite web |title=Schultz named AHCA First-Team All-American |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/4/6/Schultz_named_AHCA_First_Team_All_American.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=April 6, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060857/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/4/6/Schultz_named_AHCA_First_Team_All_American.aspx |url-status=live }} Lastly, he became the first player in program history to be named a two-time Hobey Baker Memorial Award top-10 finalist.{{cite web |title=Athlete of the Year nominees: Justin Schultz |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/6/13/Athlete_of_the_Year_nominees_Justin_Schultz.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=June 13, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060857/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/6/13/Athlete_of_the_Year_nominees_Justin_Schultz.aspx |url-status=live }} At the team level, Schultz was recognized with the Spike Carlson Most Valuable Player Award as he became the first Badger defenseman to lead a team in goal scoring.{{cite web |title=Schultz named MVP at 2011-12 hockey team awards gathering |url=https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/5/3/Schultz_named_MVP_at_2011_12_hockey_team_awards_gathering.aspx |publisher=UW Badgers |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=May 3, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060906/https://uwbadgers.com/news/2012/5/3/Schultz_named_MVP_at_2011_12_hockey_team_awards_gathering.aspx |url-status=live }}
After withdrawing from UW following his junior season, Schultz and the Ducks were unable to come to terms on a contract within the 30-day negotiating window. As such, he became an unrestricted free agent and was heavily recruited by nearly all NHL teams.{{cite web |title=Big Days Ahead For Justin Schultz |url=https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/big-days-ahead-for-justin-schultz |publisher=West Kelowna Warriors |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=June 27, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228060857/https://www.westkelownawarriors.ca/big-days-ahead-for-justin-schultz |url-status=live }} The Edmonton Oilers pushed hard to recruit Schultz, including having Wayne Gretzky and Paul Coffey personally recruit him.{{cite news |last1=Staples |first1=David |title=Wayne Gretzky and Paul Coffey help Edmonton Oilers to recruit Justin Schultz, TSN's Dreger reports |url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/wayne-gretzky-and-paul-coffey-help-edmonton-oilers-to-recruit-justin-schultz-tsns-dreger-reports |access-date=February 28, 2023 |work=Edmonton Journal |date=June 29, 2012 |archive-date=March 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240311230051/https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/wayne-gretzky-and-paul-coffey-help-edmonton-oilers-to-recruit-justin-schultz-tsns-dreger-reports |url-status=live }}
=Edmonton Oilers=
File:AHL Hockey Oct 23 Barons vs Monsters (50482415002).jpg in 2012]]
On June 30, 2012, Schultz agreed to a two-year, entry-level contract with the Oilers worth $925,000 including a $92,500 signing bonus.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Oilers agree to terms with highly sought-after free agent, Justin Schultz |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-agree-to-terms-with-highly-sought-after-free-agent-justin-schultz/c-636627 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=June 30, 2012 |archive-date=April 24, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424071945/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-agree-to-terms-with-highly-sought-after-free-agent-justin-schultz/c-636627 |url-status=dead}} Due to the 2012–13 NHL lockout that cancelled the first three months of the 2012–13 NHL season, Schultz played the first games of his professional career in the American Hockey League (AHL) for the Oilers' affiliate, the Oklahoma City Barons.{{cite web |title=Oilers Assign 26 Players to Oklahoma City |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-assign-26-players-to-oklahoma-city/c-641579 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=September 15, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010119/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-assign-26-players-to-oklahoma-city/c-641579 |url-status=dead}} He was one of the few Oilers top young players assigned to the AHL, alongside Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jordan Eberle.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Future Watch: Nelson, Barons ready for '12-13 |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/future-watch-nelson-barons-ready-for-12-13/c-642260 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=September 26, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010120/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/future-watch-nelson-barons-ready-for-12-13/c-642260 |url-status=dead}} He quickly made an impact on the ice and talied six goals and six assists for a league-leading 12 points through October. As such, he received the CCM/AHL Player of the Month award for the month of October.{{cite web |title=Schultz named CCM/AHL Player of the Month |url=https://theahl.com/schultz-named-ccmahl-player-of-the-month |publisher=American Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 1, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010120/https://theahl.com/schultz-named-ccmahl-player-of-the-month |url-status=dead}} By late November, the Barons maintained an 11–5–1–1 record as Schultz led the team in scoring with 10 goals and 28 points through 18 games.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Expectations |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/expectations/c-657772 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 26, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010123/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/expectations/c-657772 |url-status=dead}} As a result of his play, Schultz was named the CCM/AHL Rookie Of The Month for the month of November. During the month, he had scored five goals and 14 assists for 19 points through 13 games.{{cite web |title=Eberle, Schultz win monthly awards |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/eberle-schultz-win-monthly-awards/c-646872 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=December 3, 2012 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010124/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/eberle-schultz-win-monthly-awards/c-646872 |url-status=dead}}
File:Justin Schultz Oilers 2013.jpg
Once the NHL resumed play in January, Schultz joined the Oilers for the remainder of the NHL 2012–13 season. Despite this, he became the first rookie to be awarded the AHL's Eddie Shore Award as the league's top defenseman, despite participating in less than half of Oklahoma City's games.{{cite web |title=Schultz captures AHL's Eddie Shore Award |url=https://theahl.com/schultz-captures-ahls-eddie-shore-award |publisher=American Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=April 17, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010121/https://theahl.com/schultz-captures-ahls-eddie-shore-award |url-status=dead}} Schultz was also named a 2013 AHL First Team All Star.{{cite web |title=Justin Schultz Named First Team AHL All Star |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/justin-schultz-named-first-team-ahl-all-star/c-665314 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=April 11, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228015808/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/justin-schultz-named-first-team-ahl-all-star/c-665314 |url-status=dead}} Schultz made his NHL debut on January 21 in a 3–2 win over the Vancouver Canucks.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=RECAP: Oilers rally, win season-opener in shootout |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/recap-oilers-rally-win-season-opener-in-shootout/c-651585 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 21, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010120/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/recap-oilers-rally-win-season-opener-in-shootout/c-651585 |url-status=dead}} He scored his first goal the following day in a 6–3 loss to the San Jose Sharks during the Oilers' home opener.{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Oilers allow six first-period goals in home opener loss |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-allow-six-first-period-goals-in-home-opener-loss/c-652017 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 23, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010122/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-allow-six-first-period-goals-in-home-opener-loss/c-652017 |url-status=dead}} Schultz finished his rookie season with eight goals and 19 assists through 48 games and was subsequently named to the NHL All-Rookie Team.{{cite web |title=Brendan Gallagher and Justin Schultz named to NHL's All-Rookie team |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/brendan-gallagher-and-justin-schultz-named-to-nhl-s-all-rookie-team-1.1347228 |work=CTV News |agency=Associated Press |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=June 29, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228010123/https://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/brendan-gallagher-and-justin-schultz-named-to-nhl-s-all-rookie-team-1.1347228 |url-status=live }}
During the 2013 offseason, the Oilers added more defencemen to their roster including Andrew Ference, Philip Larsen, Anton Belov, and Darnell Nurse.{{cite web |title=Oilers' Justin Schultz looking to take next step |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-justin-schultz-looking-to-take-next-step/c-680370 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=August 20, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228015805/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-justin-schultz-looking-to-take-next-step/c-680370 |url-status=dead}} Schultz returned to the Oilers for the 2013–14 season where he set new career-highs in goals, assists, and points through 74 games in the final year of his contract. "He began the season slowly as he missed eight games following a groin injury during a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on October 29. Prior to returning on November 20, the Oilers had maintained a losing 2–6–0 record.{{cite web |last1=Halford |first1=Mike |title=Schultz returns to Oilers lineup after eight-game absence |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2013/11/19/schultz-returns-to-oilers-lineup-after-eight-game-absence/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 19, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228015804/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2013/11/19/schultz-returns-to-oilers-lineup-after-eight-game-absence/ |url-status=live }} He was expected to have been able to return earlier but was deemed not ready.{{cite news |last1=van Diest |first1=Derek |title=Justin Schultz says he's nearing a return to the Oilers denfensive corps |url=https://edmontonsun.com/2013/11/18/justin-schultz-says-hes-nearing-a-return-to-the-oilers-denfensive-corps |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Edmonton Sun |date=November 18, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131128165200/https://edmontonsun.com/2013/11/18/justin-schultz-says-hes-nearing-a-return-to-the-oilers-denfensive-corps |archive-date=November 28, 2013}} In his first game back from the injury, Schultz scored his first goal of the season in an eventual 7–0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.{{cite web |last1=Wescott |first1=Chris |title=Recap: Oilers 7, Blue Jackets 0 |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/recap-oilers-7-blue-jackets-0/c-692283 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 20, 2013 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228015808/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/recap-oilers-7-blue-jackets-0/c-692283 |url-status=dead}}
File:Justin Schultz - Edmonton Oilers.jpg
On August 28, 2014, Schultz signed a new one-year contract with the Oilers valued at $3.675 million.{{cite web |last1=Wescott |first1=Chris |title=Loaded with potential, Schultz signs with Oilers for important season |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/loaded-with-potential-schultz-signs-with-oilers-for-important-season/c-729309 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=August 29, 2014 |archive-date=April 3, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403220005/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/loaded-with-potential-schultz-signs-with-oilers-for-important-season/c-729309 |url-status=dead}} Schultz began the 2014–15 season with 11 points and a minus-eight rating through 28 games as the Oilers struggled to win games. As such, head coach Dallas Eakins scratched Schultz on November 27 for their game against the Nashville Predators.{{cite web |last1=McKenna |first1=Ryan |title=Nine big-name healthy scratches in 2014-15 |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/seven-big-name-healthy-scratches-this-season/ |work=Sportsnet |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=December 11, 2014 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228021317/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/seven-big-name-healthy-scratches-this-season/ |url-status=live }} Schultz struggled on the power play during the coaching tenure of Eakins but improved as the Oilers’ hired Todd Nelson in January 2015.{{cite web |last1=Willis |first1=Jonathan |title=Five players bound to break out in 2015-16 NHL season |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/five-players-bound-to-break-out-in-2015-16-nhl-season/ |work=Sportsnet |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=September 2, 2015 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228015803/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/five-players-bound-to-break-out-in-2015-16-nhl-season/ |url-status=live }} The following year, he signed another one-year contract worth $3.9 million to avoid salary arbitration.{{cite news |last1=van Diest |first1=Derek |title=Oilers sign Justin Schultz to one-year, $3.9 million contract; avoid arbitration |url=https://edmontonsun.com/2015/07/15/oilers-sign-justin-schultz-to-one-year-39-million-contract-avoid-arbitration |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Edmonton Sun |date=July 15, 2015 |archive-date=September 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905101532/http://www.edmontonsun.com/2015/07/15/oilers-sign-justin-schultz-to-one-year-39-million-contract-avoid-arbitration |url-status=live }} However, Schultz suffered a back injury early in the 2015–16 season and was expected to miss two to four weeks to recover.{{cite web |title=Oilers' D Schultz out 2-4 weeks with back injury |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/oilers-d-schultz-out-2-4-weeks-with-back-injury/ |work=Sportsnet |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=October 29, 2015 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228024314/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/oilers-d-schultz-out-2-4-weeks-with-back-injury/ |url-status=live }} He missed 14 games before returning to the Oilers lineup. In his first five games back, Schultz averaged between 15 and 18 minutes of ice time while playing with Oscar Klefbom.{{cite news |last1=van Diest |first1=Derek |title=After missing 14 games, Oilers defenceman Justin Schultz starting to regain pre-injury game |url=https://edmontonsun.com/2015/12/07/after-missing-14-games-oilers-defenceman-justin-schultz-starting-to-regain-pre-injury-game |access-date=February 27, 2023 |work=Edmonton Sun |date=December 7, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107043909/https://edmontonsun.com/2015/12/07/after-missing-14-games-oilers-defenceman-justin-schultz-starting-to-regain-pre-injury-game |archive-date=January 7, 2016}}
=Pittsburgh Penguins=
On February 27, 2016, with the Oilers out of playoff contention for the 2015–16 season, and suffering the worst season of his professional career with 10 points in 45 games, Schultz was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2016 NHL entry draft.{{cite web |title=Penguins Acquire Defenseman Justin Schultz from the Edmonton Oilers for a 2016 Third-Round Draft Pick |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-acquire-defenseman-justin-schultz-from-the-edmonton-oilers-for-a-2016-third-round-draft-pick/c-871036 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=February 27, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124232/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-acquire-defenseman-justin-schultz-from-the-edmonton-oilers-for-a-2016-third-round-draft-pick/c-871036 |url-status=dead}} He was specifically recruited by head coach Mike Sullivan due to his offensive talents, speed, and strong breakouts of the defensive zone.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Pens Hope Schultz will be Perfect Fit |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-hope-schultz-will-be-perfect-fit/c-871041 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=February 27, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124230/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-hope-schultz-will-be-perfect-fit/c-871041 |url-status=dead }} Due to immigration issues and lack of practice, Schultz was unable to make his debut with the Penguins during the first three games following the trade.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Penguins' Schultz unlikely to debut vs. Rangers |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-rangers-pittsburgh-penguins-preview/c-279303282 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 3, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124234/https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-rangers-pittsburgh-penguins-preview/c-279303282 |url-status=live }} He eventually made his debut with the team on March 6 against the New Jersey Devils, playing on the third defensive pair with Ian Cole.{{cite web |last1=O'Brien |first1=James |title=The Justin Schultz experiment begins for the Penguins |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/03/06/the-justin-schultz-experiment-begins-for-the-penguins/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 6, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124234/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/03/06/the-justin-schultz-experiment-begins-for-the-penguins/ |url-status=live }} He was eventually tried out on the Penguins first powerplay unit with Kris Letang, Beau Bennett, Patric Hörnqvist, and Sidney Crosby.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=The Inside Scoop: Game Day (Pens vs. Sabres) |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/the-inside-scoop-game-day-pens-vs-sabres/c-876028 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=March 29, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124231/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/the-inside-scoop-game-day-pens-vs-sabres/c-876028 |url-status=dead}} As the Penguins qualified for the 2016 Stanley Cup playoffs they faced off against the New York Rangers in the first round. Although the Penguins advanced, Schultz only saw 5:52 minutes of ice time in Game 1 before he was scratched for the remainder of the series.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Five reasons the Penguins advanced |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-eliminate-rangers-in-game-5/c-280450724 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=April 24, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124233/https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-eliminate-rangers-in-game-5/c-280450724 |url-status=dead }} During the second round, Schultz saw increased playing time due to injuries and suspensions to the defensive core. He debuted against the Capitals in Game 4 where he logged 17:56 minutes of ice time in the 3–1 win.{{cite web |last1=Rosen |first1=Dan |title=Penguins pull together, put Capitals on brink |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-put-capitals-on-brink/c-280572082 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=May 5, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301185640/https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-put-capitals-on-brink/c-280572082 |url-status=live }} Following his debut, he continued to be inserted into the lineup and replaced Olli Määttä on the blue line.{{cite web |last1=Brough |first1=Jason |title=Maatta appears to be healthy scratch, replaced by Schultz |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/05/16/maatta-appears-to-be-healthy-scratch-replaced-by-schultz/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=May 16, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301185638/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/05/16/maatta-appears-to-be-healthy-scratch-replaced-by-schultz/ |url-status=live }} After the Penguins eliminated the Capitals, they met with the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Eastern Conference Finals. During this series, Schultz stepped into a larger role on the ice including time on the power play.{{cite web |last1=Burnside |first1=Scott |title=Former cast-off Justin Schultz making the most of active duty with the Pittsburgh Penguins |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/15651401/nhl-2016-stanley-cup-playoffs-pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-making-most-second-chance |work=ESPN |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=May 21, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301185641/https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/15651401/nhl-2016-stanley-cup-playoffs-pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-making-most-second-chance |url-status=live }} He continued to provide offence from the third pair with Ian Cole{{cite web |last1=Compton |first1=Brian |title=Penguins vs. Sharks Stanley Cup Final preview |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-vs-sharks-cup-final-preview/c-280830688 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=May 28, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301185637/https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-vs-sharks-cup-final-preview/c-280830688 |url-status=live }} but also saw time on the power play with Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Phil Kessel. After eliminating the Lightning in Game 7, the Penguins faced off against the San Jose Sharks in the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals. On the third defensive pair with Cole in Game 1, Schultz played nearly 19 minutes of ice time and earned a primary assist on the Penguins’ opening goal.{{cite news |last1=Willis |first1=Jonathan |title=Cult of Hockey player grades: Justin Schultz takes on more responsibility in Penguins' Game 1 win |url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/cult-of-hockey-player-grades-justin-schultz-takes-on-more-responsibility-in-penguins-game-1-win |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=Edmonton Journal |date=May 31, 2016 |archive-date=November 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127235454/https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/cult-of-hockey-player-grades-justin-schultz-takes-on-more-responsibility-in-penguins-game-1-win |url-status=live }} On June 12, 2016, Schultz won his first Stanley Cup with the Penguins after defeating the Sharks in Game 6.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Pens Fulfill Destiny with 4th Cup Title |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-fulfill-destiny-with-4th-cup-title/c-885768 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=June 12, 2016 |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317203305/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-fulfill-destiny-with-4th-cup-title/c-885768 |url-status=dead }} On July 13, 2016, after testing free agency, Schultz returned to the Penguins, signing a one-year, $1.4 million contract.{{cite web |title=Justin Schultz signs one-year contract with Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-re-signs-with-pittsburgh/c-281163118 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 28, 2023 |date=July 13, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228124230/https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-re-signs-with-pittsburgh/c-281163118 |url-status=live }}
File:Justin Schultz 2017-06-11 16166 (2).jpg
Schultz returned to the Penguins for the 2016–17 season where he experienced a breakout campaign, setting career-highs in goals, assists, and points. He emerged as the top blue-liner for the Penguins due to star defenceman Letang being limited to only 41 games with various injuries.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Kris Letang of Penguins will miss playoffs |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburghs-kris-letang-out-for-playoffs/c-288462472 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=April 5, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202709/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburghs-kris-letang-out-for-playoffs/c-288462472 |url-status=live }} At the beginning of the season, Schultz immediately stepped back into the first power-play unit role where he averaged over 27 shot attempts per 60 minutes of power play time through five games.{{cite web |last1=Gretz |first1=Adam |title=Justin Schultz quietly making big impact on Penguins power play |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/10/30/justin-schultz-quietly-making-big-impact-on-penguins-power-play/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=October 30, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202709/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2016/10/30/justin-schultz-quietly-making-big-impact-on-penguins-power-play/ |url-status=live }} Although he had increased responsibilities, Schultz remained defensive partners with Cole.{{cite web |last1=McDermott |first1=Bryanna |title=Cole, Schultz pair feeling it |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/cole-schultz-pair-feeling-it/c-284361276 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=December 3, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202718/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/cole-schultz-pair-feeling-it/c-284361276 |url-status=live }} Between November 30 and December 9, the pair accumulated a total of 15 points between the two of them through five games. Schultz also maintained a five-game scoring streak, including three multi-point nights for a total of eight points.{{cite web |last1=McDermott |first1=Bryanna |title=Pens' defense playing with confidence |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-defense-playing-with-confidence/c-284550858 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=December 9, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202717/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-defense-playing-with-confidence/c-284550858 |url-status=live }} Through December, Schultz also became the lone defenseman on the Penguins power play unit,{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=Snap Shots: Kings 1, Pens 0 (OT) |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-kings-1-pens-0-ot/c-284789952 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=December 16, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-kings-1-pens-0-ot/c-284789952 |url-status=live}} a role which he continued even after Letang returned to the lineup.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Snap Shots: Penguins 4, Canadiens 3 OT |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-snap-shots-vs-canadiens/c-285213256 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=December 31, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202715/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-snap-shots-vs-canadiens/c-285213256 |url-status=live }} By the end of December, Schultz, Crosty, and Malkin ranked as the NHL's top-three scorers for the month of December.{{cite web |title=Evgeni Malkin Named NHL Second Star for December |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/evgeni-malkin-nhl-star-2016-december/c-285289084 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=January 3, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202713/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/evgeni-malkin-nhl-star-2016-december/c-285289084 |url-status=live }}
As the season continued and Schultz stepped more into his new role, he averaged 19:15 of ice-time per game and had proven to be valuable to the team when 5-on-5 and shorthanded.{{cite web |last1=Cooper |first1=Josh |title=Penguins' Justin Schultz diagnosed with concussion |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/penguins-justin-schultz-diagnosed-with-concussion-001506239.html |work=Puck Daddy |via=Yahoo! Sports |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=February 17, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/penguins-justin-schultz-diagnosed-with-concussion-001506239.html |url-status=live }} By the mid-point of the season, Schultz ranked 7th among blueliners in scoring with 26 points and he ranked second best in the league with a plus-minus of +24.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=By the Numbers: Halfway Point |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/by-the-numbers-halfway-point/c-285629074 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=January 13, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301204012/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/by-the-numbers-halfway-point/c-285629074 |url-status=live }} His scoring depth helped the Penguins rank fifth on the power play and second in goals per game.{{cite web |last1=Cotsonika |first1=Nicholas J. |title=Justin Schultz at home with Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-regains-confidence/c-285711720 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=January 15, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-regains-confidence/c-285711720 |url-status=live }} He had accumulated 39 points over 56 games before suffering a concussion during a game against the Winnipeg Jets on February 17. While Schultz, Letang, Trevor Daley, and Määttä were recovering from injuries, the Penguins added Ron Hainsey to help their depleted defence.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Pens add Hainsey to help D corps |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-add-hainsey-to-help-d-corps/c-287068434 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=February 23, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301204013/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-add-hainsey-to-help-d-corps/c-287068434 |url-status=live }} Schultz eventually returned to the Penguins lineup for their Stadium Series against the Philadelphia Flyers after missing three games.{{cite news |title=Penguins defeat Flyers, 4-2, in Stadium Series game at Heinz Field |url=https://www.mcall.com/2017/02/26/penguins-defeat-flyers-4-2-in-stadium-series-game-at-heinz-field/ |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=The Morning Call |date=February 26, 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20230301195144/https://www.mcall.com/2017/02/26/penguins-defeat-flyers-4-2-in-stadium-series-game-at-heinz-field/|archive-date=March 1, 2023}} As he was cautious following his injury, Schultz remained pointless in his first three games back before regaining his confidence and scoring five points in two games. His increased confidence and strong work ethic also earned him praise from teammates and coach Mike Sullivan.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=The Inside Scoop: Schultz "On Another Level" |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/the-inside-scoop-schultz-on-another-level/c-287466678 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=March 7, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202712/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/the-inside-scoop-schultz-on-another-level/c-287466678 |url-status=live }} Schultz also credited his confidence for his increase in production, saying: "I have my confidence back. I needed a change of scenery and new environment. Luckily, I got a good opportunity to go elsewhere and try to get my game back on track. It worked out. I'm just trying to keep working hard and keep getting that confidence up."{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Schultz resurrects career in Pittsburgh |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-resurrects-career-in-pittsburgh/c-287548210 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=March 9, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-resurrects-career-in-pittsburgh/c-287548210 |url-status=live }} He finished the regular season with career-highs in goals (12), assists (39), points (51) and plus-minus (+27).{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=Schultz in bigger role this postseason |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-in-bigger-role-this-postseason/c-288675988 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=April 11, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202720/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-in-bigger-role-this-postseason/c-288675988 |url-status=live }} His impressive regular season was recognized with numerous Norris Trophy votes as the NHL's Top Defenceman.{{cite web |last1=O'Brien |first1=James |title=Burns edges Karlsson for his first Norris Trophy (video) |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2017/06/21/burns-edges-karlsson-for-his-first-norris-trophy/ |work=NBC Sports |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=July 21, 2017 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160318/https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2017/06/21/burns-edges-karlsson-for-his-first-norris-trophy/ |url-status=live }}
As the Penguins clinched a playoff berth, Schultz was expected to play a bigger role in the postseason due to Letang being ruled out for the playoffs. The Penguins faced off against the Columbus Blue Jackets in the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Marc-Andre Fleury helps Penguins win Game 1 |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/columbus-blue-jackets-pittsburgh-penguins-game-1-recap/c-288726828 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=April 13, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202711/https://www.nhl.com/news/columbus-blue-jackets-pittsburgh-penguins-game-1-recap/c-288726828 |url-status=live }} After defeating the Blue Jackets in five games, the Penguins met with the Washington Capitals in the Eastern Conference Second Round. Schultz and Cole continued to be a strong defensive pair for the Penguins during the series.{{cite web |last1=Cotsonika |first1=Nicholas J. |title=Ian Cole raising game for Penguins against Capitals |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-defenseman-ian-cole-finding-offensive-groove/c-289157710 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=April 28, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301204010/https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-defenseman-ian-cole-finding-offensive-groove/c-289157710 |url-status=live }} Schultz led the team with an average of 21:10 minutes per game as he helped the Penguins defeat the Capitals in seven games to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. In Game 2 of the Conference Finals, Schultz suffered an injury following an open-ice hit from Ottawa defenseman Dion Phaneuf.{{cite news |last1=Allen |first1=Kevin |title=Penguins lose Justin Schultz, Bryan Rust to injuries early in Game 2 |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2017/05/15/justin-schultz-bryan-rust-injuries-dion-phaneuf-hit-penguins-senators-playoffs/101731972/ |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=USA Today |date=May 16, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2017/05/15/justin-schultz-bryan-rust-injuries-dion-phaneuf-hit-penguins-senators-playoffs/101731972/ |url-status=live }} He returned to the Penguins lineup for Game 7, during which he scored the Penguins’ only power play of the game, at 11:44 of the third period, to advance them to the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals.{{cite news |last1=Gentille |first1=Sean |title=Without Kris Letang, Justin Schultz is answering the call |url=http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2017/05/26/justin-schultz-penguins-senators-game-7-stanley-cup-final-2017/stories/201705260266 |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |date=May 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170616041543/http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2017/05/26/justin-schultz-penguins-senators-game-7-stanley-cup-final-2017/stories/201705260266 |archive-date=June 16, 2017}} As the Penguins advanced to the Finals, Schultz had tallied ten points and three goals through 15 games in the playoffs.{{cite news |last1=Tepper |first1=Jeremy |title=Without Kris Letang, Penguins' defensemen step up in playoffs |url=https://www.timesonline.com/story/sports/nhl/2017/05/27/without-kris-letang-penguins-defensemen/18590502007/ |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=The Times |date=May 27, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.timesonline.com/story/sports/nhl/2017/05/27/without-kris-letang-penguins-defensemen/18590502007/ |url-status=live }} On June 11, Schultz and the Penguins defeated the Nashville Predators in six games to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions.{{cite web |last1=Stanley |first1=Robby |title=Penguins repeat Stanley Cup with Game 6 win against Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-nashville-predators-game-6-recap/c-289884970 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=June 12, 2017 |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301202710/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-nashville-predators-game-6-recap/c-289884970 |url-status=live }} On July 1, 2017, the first day of free agency, Schultz signed a three-year, $16.5 million contract to stay with the Penguins.{{cite web |title=Justin Schultz signs three-year contract with Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-signs-three-year-contract-with-penguins/c-290264560 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=July 1, 2017 |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317203305/https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-signs-three-year-contract-with-penguins/c-290264560 |url-status=live }} He was also protected by the Penguins and unavailable for the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2017 NHL expansion draft.{{cite web |title=NHL Announces Available, Protected Lists for Expansion Draft |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-expansion-draft-vegas/c-289973604 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=June 18, 2017 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050936/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-expansion-draft-vegas/c-289973604 |url-status=live }}
File:Justin Schultz 2018-03-03 19658.jpg
In the first year of his contract, Schultz failed to replicate his previous seasons' scoring prowess due to injuries and illnesses. Schultz began the 2017–18 season by picking up one goal and two assists through his first 10 games while also averaging 18:36 of ice time, before suffering another concussion during a game against the Oilers. He was subsequently placed on injured reserve by the Penguins on October 26.{{cite web |title=Schultz placed on injured reserve by Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-placed-on-injured-reserve-by-pittsburgh/c-292287626 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=October 26, 2017 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302005058/https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-placed-on-injured-reserve-by-pittsburgh/c-292287626 |url-status=live }} He returned to the Penguins lineup after missing six games and immediately scored on his first shift to lift the Penguins 3–1 over the Arizona Coyotes.{{cite news |last1=Mackey |first1=Jason |title=Justin Schultz has wide-ranging impact in return to Penguins lineup |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2017/11/07/Schultz-Penguins-Coyotes-return-goal-concussion/stories/201711070255 |access-date=March 1, 2023 |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |date=November 8, 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230301201105/https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2017/11/07/Schultz-Penguins-Coyotes-return-goal-concussion/stories/201711070255 |archive-date=March 1, 2023}} Upon his return, head coach Mike Sullivan placed Schultz back into the Penguins top power-play unit with Letang.{{cite web |last1=Rorabaugh |first1=Seth |title=What's the difference with Kris Letang or Justin Schultz on the power play? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/152966/2017/11/11/whats-the-difference-with-kris-letang-or-justin-schultz-on-the-power-play/ |work=The Athletic |access-date=March 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230301200907/https://theathletic.com/152966/2017/11/11/whats-the-difference-with-kris-letang-or-justin-schultz-on-the-power-play/ |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |url-status=live |date=November 11, 2017}} He continued to make an impact in the lineup and quickly accumulated seven more points before suffering a lower-body injury in a December game against the New York Rangers.{{cite web |title=Penguins place Justin Schultz on IR, recall Frank Corrado |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/penguins-place-justin-schultz-ir-recall-frank-corrado/ |work=Sportsnet |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=December 7, 2017 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050932/https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/penguins-place-justin-schultz-ir-recall-frank-corrado/ |url-status=live }} He was placed on injured reserve by the Penguins on December 7 and missed 11 games to recover. He returned to the lineup on January 4, 2018, in a win over the Philadelphia Flyers.{{cite web|title=Penguins score 4 in 2nd period to top Flyers 5-1|url=https://www.foxsports.com/nhl/story/penguins-score-4-in-2nd-period-to-top-flyers-5-1-010218|work=Fox Sports |agency=Associated Press |access-date=January 7, 2018|date=January 2, 2018|archive-date=January 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180108184952/https://www.foxsports.com/nhl/story/penguins-score-4-in-2nd-period-to-top-flyers-5-1-010218|url-status=live}} While he was recovering, the Penguins traded for Jamie Oleksiak, who quickly became Schultz's new defensive partner.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Snap Shots: Pens 3, Stars 1 |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-vs-stars/c-296854470 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=March 11, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050922/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-vs-stars/c-296854470 |url-status=live }} A few weeks following his return, Schultz left a game against the Los Angeles Kings in the third period after being crosschecked by Dustin Brown. As a result of his actions, Brown received a five-minute major, game misconduct, and a fine of $10,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA. Although Schultz left for the remainder of the game, he was able to practice with the team the following day.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=3 Things: Schultz okay after crosscheck |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/3-things-schultz-okay-after-crosscheck/c-295091880 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=January 19, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050935/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/3-things-schultz-okay-after-crosscheck/c-295091880 |url-status=live }} The following month, Schultz also missed two games due to an undisclosed illness.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=3 Things: 2-20-18 |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/3-things-2-20-18/c-296163578 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=February 20, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050920/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/3-things-2-20-18/c-296163578 |url-status=live }} Schultz played his 400th career NHL game on March 23, 2018, in a game against the Devils{{cite web|title=Hall's winner lifts Devils past Penguins in OT|url=https://www.tsn.ca/hall-s-winner-lifts-devils-past-penguins-4-3-in-overtime-1.1036811|work=TSN |agency=The Canadian Press |access-date=March 28, 2018|date=March 23, 2018|archive-date=March 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328165521/https://www.tsn.ca/hall-s-winner-lifts-devils-past-penguins-4-3-in-overtime-1.1036811|url-status=live}} and later helped the Penguins clinch a playoff berth.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Penguins clinch playoff berth with win vs. Canadiens |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/montreal-canadiens-pittsburgh-penguins-game-recap/c-297531390 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=March 31, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302050923/https://www.nhl.com/news/montreal-canadiens-pittsburgh-penguins-game-recap/c-297531390 |url-status=live }} Schultz finished the regular season tallying seven assists in his final seven games.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=Pens have plenty of reasons to "3elieve" |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-have-plenty-of-reasons-to-3elieve/c-297888734 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=April 11, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302053727/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/pens-have-plenty-of-reasons-to-3elieve/c-297888734 |url-status=live }} Despite the influx of scoring in the final few games, Schultz finished the 2017–18 regular season with four goals and 23 assists.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=5 Keys: Flyers at Penguins, Game 1 |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/philadelphia-flyers-pittsburgh-penguins-game-1-preview/c-297891070 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 1, 2023 |date=April 11, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302053731/https://www.nhl.com/news/philadelphia-flyers-pittsburgh-penguins-game-1-preview/c-297891070 |url-status=live }} After eliminating the Flyers in Round One, the Penguins fell to the Capitals in the Eastern Conference Second Round.{{cite web |last1=Myers |first1=Tracey |title=Penguins look to future after three-peat bid ended by Capitals |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-expect-more-opportunities-to-win/c-298521766 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=May 8, 2018 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118180517/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-expect-more-opportunities-to-win/c-298521766 |url-status=live }}
Following his lacklustre season, Schultz entered the Penguins training camp with the expectation of improving during the 2018–19 season. However, just days into the new season, Schultz broke his leg in a game against the Montreal Canadiens and was placed on injured reserve.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Schultz to miss four months for Penguins because of broken leg |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-to-miss-four-months-with-broken-leg/c-300958618 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=October 15, 2018 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302053727/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-justin-schultz-to-miss-four-months-with-broken-leg/c-300958618 |url-status=live }} He made his return to the Penguins lineup on February 19, 2019, where he picked up one assist in the 5–4 loss to the Calgary Flames.{{cite news |last1=Bombulie |first1=Jonathan |title=Penguins' Justin Schultz makes impact in return from broken leg |url=https://triblive.com/sports/penguins-justin-schultz-makes-impact-in-return-from-broken-leg/ |access-date=March 2, 2023 |work=Pittsburgh Tribune-Review |date=February 16, 2019 |archive-date=January 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220111043821/https://triblive.com/sports/penguins-justin-schultz-makes-impact-in-return-from-broken-leg/ |url-status=live }} One week after his return, he scored his first goal of the season and played over 30 minutes in the 2019 NHL Stadium Series overtime loss to the Flyers.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Snap Shots: Flyers 4, Penguins 3 |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-vs-flyers/c-305154404 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=February 23, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302053724/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-vs-flyers/c-305154404 |url-status=live }} During the Stadium Series, defencemen Letang and Brian Dumoulin suffered long term injuries leading to coach Sullivan to rely more heavily on Schultz, Jack Johnson, Chad Ruhwedel, and Marcus Pettersson.{{cite web |last1=Rosen |first1=Dan |title=Letang, Dumoulin injured for Penguins in loss to Flyers at Stadium Series |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-letang-dumoulin-injured-in-stadium-series-loss-to-flyers/c-305164846 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=February 24, 2019 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118182328/https://www.nhl.com/news/penguins-letang-dumoulin-injured-in-stadium-series-loss-to-flyers/c-305164846 |url-status=live }} Schultz later assisted on Malkin's 1,000th NHL point, leading him to a total of one goal and 12 assists over 17 games.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=Game Preview: Pens-Sabres |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/game-preview-pens-sabres/c-305751326 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=March 13, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160318/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/game-preview-pens-sabres/c-305751326 |url-status=live }} Schultz and the Penguins qualified for the 2019 Stanley Cup playoffs but they were swept by the New York Islanders in Round One.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Islanders win Game 4, sweep Penguins in first round |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-islanders-pittsburgh-penguins-game-4-recap/c-306818826 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=April 16, 2019 |archive-date=April 17, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417025032/https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-islanders-pittsburgh-penguins-game-4-recap/c-306818826 |url-status=live }}
File:Justin Schultz defending against T. J. Oshie in 2020.png forward T. J. Oshie in 2020]]
Schultz returned to the Penguins for the 2019–20 season, which would prove to be his final season in a Penguins uniform. He stayed healthy through the Penguin's six preseason games and he collected a pair of assists in each one for a team-leading six points.{{cite web |last1=Crechiolo |first1=Michelle |title=Schultz rebounding after lost season |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-rebounding-after-lost-season/c-309601074 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=September 30, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160320/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/schultz-rebounding-after-lost-season/c-309601074 |url-status=live }} Once the regular season began, Schultz impressed coaching staff as he led all Penguins defencemen in power-play points through mid-October.{{cite web |last1=Reese |first1=Rob |title=Sabres need to spread out scoring on power play, numbers suggest |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/behind-the-numbers-sabres-and-devils-power-play-analysis/c-310190272 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=October 17, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160318/https://www.nhl.com/news/behind-the-numbers-sabres-and-devils-power-play-analysis/c-310190272 |url-status=live }} He quickly accumulated two goals and six assists through 21 games before missing seven games due to a lower-body injury.{{cite web |title=Penguins Re-Assign Zach Trotman to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-re-assign-trotman-to-wbs/c-312240348 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=December 6, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160319/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-re-assign-trotman-to-wbs/c-312240348 |url-status=live }} He went pointless through the first six games following his return before he suffered another lower-body injury on December 20 during a game against the Calgary Flames.{{cite web |title=Schultz week to week for Penguins with lower-body injury |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-pittsburgh-penguins-injury-status/c-312795130 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=December 20, 2019 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160318/https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-pittsburgh-penguins-injury-status/c-312795130 |url-status=live }} Schultz subsequently missed 16 games to recover and returned to the Penguins lineup on January 31, 2020, for their 4–3 overtime win over the Flyers.{{cite web |last1=Kasan |first1=Sam |title=Snap Shots: Pens 4, Flyers 3 (OT) |url=https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-pens-4-flyers-3-ot/c-314502912 |publisher=Pittsburgh Penguins |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=January 31, 2020 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160321/https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/snap-shots-pens-4-flyers-3-ot/c-314502912 |url-status=live }} When the NHL paused play due to the COVID-19 pandemic in March, Schultz had accumulated 12 points through 46 games. During the 2020 Stanley Cup qualifiers, Schultz and Jack Johnson struggled as the third defensive pair and they were on the ice for the majority of the Montreal Canadiens' ten goals throughout the series.{{cite web |last1=Crosby |first1=Wes |title=Penguins can look to championship core after loss in Cup Qualifiers |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-eliminated-from-playoff-contention/c-318336868 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=August 8, 2020 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160318/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-eliminated-from-playoff-contention/c-318336868 |url-status=live }} After the Penguins were swept in the qualifiers, Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford revealed the organization would "move on" from Schultz, choosing not to re-sign him.{{cite news |last1=Defabo |first1=Mike |title=GM Jim Rutherford on how he plans to retool the Penguins |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2020/08/31/GM-Jim-Rutherford-on-how-he-plans-to-retool-the-Penguins/stories/202008310091 |access-date=March 2, 2023 |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |date=August 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230302155637/https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2020/08/31/GM-Jim-Rutherford-on-how-he-plans-to-retool-the-Penguins/stories/202008310091 |archive-date=March 2, 2023}}
=Washington Capitals=
File:Justin Schultz Capitals vs Los Angeles Kings (cropped).jpg in December 2021]]
On October 9, 2020, Schultz signed a two-year, $8 million contract, with an average annual value of $4 million, with the Washington Capitals as a free agent.{{cite web |title=Capitals Sign Defenseman Justin Schultz |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/capitals-sign-defenseman-justin-schultz/c-319403834 |publisher=Washington Capitals |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=October 9, 2020 |archive-date=March 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317203335/https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/capitals-sign-defenseman-justin-schultz/c-319403834 |url-status=live }} He began the season playing on the right side of Jonas Siegenthaler.{{cite web |last1=Vogel |first1=Mike |title=Skate Shavings - News and Notes from Caps' Morning Skate 1/22 |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/skate-shavings---news-and-notes-from-caps-morning-skate-122/c-320579500 |publisher=Washington Capitals |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 22, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025833/https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/skate-shavings---news-and-notes-from-caps-morning-skate-122/c-320579500 |url-status=live }} As the Capitals maintained a season-opening point streak of 10 games{{cite web |last1=Vogel |first1=Mike |title=Caps Take Quick Trip to Manhattan |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/caps-take-quick-trip-to-manhattan/c-321063106 |publisher=Washington Capitals |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=February 3, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025822/https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/caps-take-quick-trip-to-manhattan/c-321063106 |url-status=live }} Schultz recorded two goals and four assists.{{cite web |last1=Valentine |first1=Harvey |title=Chara scores, Capitals use five-goal second period to defeat Islanders |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-islanders-washington-capitals-game-recap/c-320706538 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 28, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025833/https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-islanders-washington-capitals-game-recap/c-320706538 |url-status=live }} However, during the streak, Schultz took a puck to the face during a game against the New York Islanders on January 28 and was considered day-to-day.{{cite web |last1=Regan |first1=J.J. |title=Capitals D Justin Schultz day-to-day after taking a puck to the face |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/capitals/capitals-d-justin-schultz-day-day-after-taking-puck-face |work=NBC Sports |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 29, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025826/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/capitals/capitals-d-justin-schultz-day-day-after-taking-puck-face |url-status=dead }} Schultz subsequently missed four games to recover but was able to have extra practices due to three games being postponed due to an outbreak of COVID-19.{{cite web |last1=Gulitti |first1=Tom |title=Capitals healthy, play for first time in week against Penguins |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/washington-capitals-set-to-return-to-play-vs-pittsburgh-penguins/c-321371384 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=February 14, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025824/https://www.nhl.com/news/washington-capitals-set-to-return-to-play-vs-pittsburgh-penguins/c-321371384 |url-status=live }} As the season progressed, Schultz began a mainstay on the second pair with Dmitry Orlov and had quickly accumulated two goals and 15 assists through 30 games by late March.{{cite news |last1=Pell |first1=Samantha |title=Justin Schultz needed a reset after the 2020 season. He got it with the Caps. |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/03/29/justin-schultz-washington-capitals-defense/ |access-date=February 27, 2023 |newspaper=Washington Post |date=March 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210329211448/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/03/29/justin-schultz-washington-capitals-defense/ |archive-date=March 29, 2021}} Despite missing three games in April due to a lower-body injury, Schultz recorded two assists to help the Capitals clinch a playoff position on April 29.{{cite web |last1=Valentine |first1=Harvey |title=Penguins, Capitals each clinch playoff berth in OT game |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-washington-capitals-game-recap/c-323714682 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=April 29, 2021 |archive-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430021347/https://www.nhl.com/news/pittsburgh-penguins-washington-capitals-game-recap/c-323714682 |url-status=live }} The Capitals eventually fell to the Boston Bruins in Game 5 of the best-of-7 Stanley Cup First Round.{{cite web |last1=Gulitti |first1=Tom |title=Capitals fall short in first round of playoffs due to age, injuries |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/washington-capitals-eliminated-from-playoffs/c-324965500 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=May 24, 2021 |archive-date=July 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719005524/https://www.nhl.com/news/washington-capitals-eliminated-from-playoffs/c-324965500 |url-status=live }} Following their elimination, the Capitals opted to leave Schultz unprotected for the 2021 NHL expansion draft and available to the Kraken.{{cite web |last1=Vogel |first1=Mike |title=Creating the Kraken: Protected Lists Unveiled |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/creating-the-kraken-protected-lists-unveiled/c-325681774 |publisher=Washington Capitals |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=July 18, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025837/https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/creating-the-kraken-protected-lists-unveiled/c-325681774 |url-status=live }}
Schultz returned to the Capitals for the 2021–22 season as the Capitals maintained a season-opening point streak for eight games.{{cite web |title=Vasilevskiy, Cirelli help Lightning end Capitals' streak |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401349265 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=November 1, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025823/https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401349265 |url-status=live }} After Schultz suffered an injury in November 2021, Dennis Cholowski replaced him for three games until Schultz was ready to return to the lineup.{{cite web |last1=Vogel |first1=Mike |title=Skate Shavings - News and Notes From Caps' Morning Skate |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/skate-shavings---news-and-notes-from-caps-morning-skate/c-328564122 |publisher=Washington Capitals |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=December 2, 2021 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025839/https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/skate-shavings---news-and-notes-from-caps-morning-skate/c-328564122 |url-status=live}} He later missed more games due to him entering the NHL's COVID-19 protocol list.{{cite web |last1=Regan |first1=J.J. |title='Another crazy day': Lineup shuffling catches up to Caps |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/capitals/another-crazy-day-caps-lineup-shuffling-catches-washington-loss-devils |work=NBC Sports |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 2, 2022 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025823/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/capitals/another-crazy-day-caps-lineup-shuffling-catches-washington-loss-devils |url-status=dead}} Schultz finished the regular season with four goals and 19 assists for 23 points through 74 games while playing on the third pairing alongside Trevor van Riemsdyk.{{cite web |last1=Silber |first1=Sammy |title=What Lies Ahead For Capitals, Justin Schultz? Closer Look At Pending UFA |url=https://www.washingtonhockeynow.com/washington-capitals-justin-schultz-free-agency |website=Washington Hockey Now |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228025833/https://www.washingtonhockeynow.com/washington-capitals-justin-schultz-free-agency |url-status=live }} During the 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs, Schultz recorded a goal and two assists for three points.
=Seattle Kraken=
On July 13, 2022, Schultz signed as a free agent on a two-year, $6 million contract with the Seattle Kraken.{{cite web |title=Schultz agrees to two-year, $6 million contract with Kraken |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-agrees-to-two-year-contract-with-seattle-kraken/c-334980470 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=July 13, 2022 |archive-date=March 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322180328/https://www.nhl.com/news/justin-schultz-agrees-to-two-year-contract-with-seattle-kraken/c-334980470 |url-status=live }} Upon joining the team, he was often paired with Jamie Oleksiak, his former Penguins teammate, as the team's second defensive pair.{{cite web |last1=Crabtree |first1=Curtis |title=Justin Schultz week-to-week with injury for Kraken |url=https://www.q13fox.com/sports/justin-schultz-week-to-week-with-injury-for-kraken|work=KCPQ|access-date=February 27, 2023 |date=January 24, 2023 |archive-date=February 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230228020055/https://www.q13fox.com/sports/justin-schultz-week-to-week-with-injury-for-kraken |url-status=live }} The duo quickly began developing chemistry and Schultz accumulated 10 points over the final six games of November.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |title=Final Buzzer: Wild, Wild Western Night in Hollywood |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/final-buzzer-seattle-kraken-at-los-angeles-kings-338207206 |publisher=Seattle Kraken |access-date=March 11, 2024 |date=November 30, 2022}} He had recorded five goals and 19 assists through 42 games before suffering an injury during a game against the Oilers in late January. Schultz missed six games to recover from the injury and returned to the Kraken lineup on February 9.{{cite web |title=Kraken at Devils |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-new-jersey-devils-game-preview/c-340854948 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 2, 2023 |date=February 9, 2023 |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302160611/https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-new-jersey-devils-game-preview/c-340854948 |url-status=live }} While Schultz recovered, Will Borgen replaced him as Oleksiak's partner but reunited with Carson Soucy once Schultz returned.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |title=Borgen: Past, Present, Future |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/will-borgen-past-present-future |publisher=Seattle Kraken |access-date=March 12, 2024 |date=December 17, 2023}} Once the Kraken qualified for the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs, Schultz was partnered with Soucy as the Kraken's third pair during their postseason run.{{cite web |last1=Paterson |first1=Jeff |title=Why interest in Carson Soucy makes perfect sense for Canucks |url=https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/vancouver-canucks/analysis/why-interest-in-carson-soucy-makes-perfect-sense-for-canucks |work=The Hockey News |access-date=March 11, 2024 |date=June 20, 2023}} During the Kraken's second round series against the Dallas Stars, Schultz helped set a franchise records for fastest three goals to start a playoff game.{{cite web |title=Seattle Kraken: Fastest Three Goals, One Team, Playoff Game |url=https://records.nhl.com/sea/records/playoff-team-records/fastest-goals/fastest-3-goals-one-team-playoff |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=March 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312001042/https://records.nhl.com/sea/records/playoff-team-records/fastest-goals/fastest-3-goals-one-team-playoff |archive-date=March 12, 2024}} He scored the first of three goals in a span of 52 seconds in Game 1 to set the record for the Kraken and mark the sixth-fastest three goals by one team in Stanley Cup playoff history.{{cite news |last1=Shefte |first1=Kate |title=Raucous first period of Kraken's Game 1 win over Stars was one for the NHL history book |url=https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2023/may/03/raucous-first-period-of-krakens-game-1-win-over-st/ |access-date=March 12, 2024 |work=The Spokesman-Review |date=May 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312001654/https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2023/may/03/raucous-first-period-of-krakens-game-1-win-over-st/ |archive-date=March 12, 2024}}
Schultz started the 2023–24 season on the Kraken's second defensive pairing with former Penguins teammate Brian Dumoulin.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |title=Opening Night Roster Set, Daccord, Kartye Earn Spots |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/opening-night-roster-set-daccord-kartye-earn-spots |publisher=Seattle Kraken |access-date=March 11, 2024 |date=October 9, 2023}} On October 30, Schultz recorded his 300th career NHL point in an overtime win against the Tampa Bay Lightning.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |title=Third Overtime is Another Charm |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/final-buzzer-seattle-kraken-at-tampa-bay-lightning-october-30 |publisher=Seattle Kraken |access-date=March 11, 2024 |date=October 30, 2023}} On December 9, during another game against the Lightning, Schultz suffered an upper-body injury after he was struck in the face by a puck.{{cite web |title=Kraken's Grubauer, Schultz exit game vs. Lightning with injuries |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/krakens-grubauer-schultz-exit-game-vs-lightning-with-injuries/ |work=Sportsnet |access-date=March 11, 2024 |date=December 10, 2023}}
=HC Lugano and retirement=
After failing to secure a contract in the NHL,{{cite magazine |last=Horwat |first=Nick |title=Former Kraken Defenseman Signs In Switzerland |url=https://www.si.com/onsi/breakaway/news-feed-page/former-kraken-justin-schultz-signs-switzerland |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=October 23, 2024 |access-date=September 23, 2024}} on October 23, 2024, Schultz signed with HC Lugano for the remainder of the 2024–25 National League season.{{cite news |title=Justin Schultz Signs In Switzerland |url=https://thehockeynews.com/international/latest-news/justin-schultz-signs-in-switzerland |work=The Hockey News |last=O'Brien |first=Derek |date=October 23, 2024 |access-date=December 13, 2024 }} On December 13, after playing only eight games in Switzerland, Schultz announced his retirement from hockey due to personal reasons.{{cite news |title=Justin Schultz Retires After 8 Games In Switzerland |url=https://thehockeynews.com/international/latest-news/justin-schultz-retires-after-8-games-in-switzerland |work=The Hockey News |last=O'Brien |first=Derek |date=December 13, 2024 |access-date=December 13, 2024 }}
Personal life
Career statistics
=Regular season and playoffs=
| border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center; width:60em" |
| bgcolor="#e0e0e0"
! colspan="3" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! colspan="5" | Regular season ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! colspan="5" | Playoffs |
| bgcolor="#e0e0e0"
! Season ! Team ! League ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2006–07 | BCHL | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2007–08 | Westside Warriors | BCHL | 57 | 9 | 31 | 40 | 28 | 11 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 4 |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2008–09 | Westside Warriors | BCHL | 49 | 15 | 35 | 50 | 29 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2009–10 | WCHA | 43 | 6 | 16 | 22 | 12 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2010–11 | University of Wisconsin | WCHA | 41 | 18 | 29 | 47 | 28 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2011–12 | University of Wisconsin | WCHA | 37 | 16 | 28 | 44 | 12 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 2012–13
| AHL | 34 | 18 | 30 | 48 | 6 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2012–13 | NHL | 48 | 8 | 19 | 27 | 8 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2013–14 | Edmonton Oilers | NHL | 74 | 11 | 22 | 33 | 16 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2014–15 | Edmonton Oilers | NHL | 81 | 6 | 25 | 31 | 12 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2015–16 | Edmonton Oilers | NHL | 45 | 3 | 7 | 10 | 14 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2015–16 | NHL | 18 | 1 | 7 | 8 | 2 | 15 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 0 |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2016–17 | Pittsburgh Penguins | NHL | 78 | 12 | 39 | 51 | 34 | 21 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 4 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2017–18 | Pittsburgh Penguins | NHL | 63 | 4 | 23 | 27 | 14 | 12 | 1 | 7 | 8 | 2 |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2018–19 | Pittsburgh Penguins | NHL | 29 | 2 | 13 | 15 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2019–20 | Pittsburgh Penguins | NHL | 46 | 3 | 9 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2020–21 | NHL | 46 | 3 | 24 | 27 | 10 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2021–22 | Washington Capitals | NHL | 74 | 4 | 19 | 23 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 6 |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2022–23 | NHL | 73 | 7 | 27 | 34 | 40 | 14 | 3 | 7 | 10 | 2 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor=f0f0f0
| 2023–24 | Seattle Kraken | NHL | 70 | 7 | 19 | 26 | 22 | — | — | — | — | — |
| ALIGN="centre"
| 2024–25 | NL | 8 | 0 | 6 | 6 | 4 | — | — | — | — | — |
| bgcolor="#e0e0e0"
! colspan="3" | NHL totals ! 745 ! 71 ! 253 ! 324 ! 198 ! 81 ! 10 ! 32 ! 42 ! 16 |
{{MedalTableTop|name = }}
{{MedalSport|Ice hockey}}
{{MedalCountry | {{ihj|CAN}} West}}
{{MedalCompetition|World Junior A Challenge}}
{{MedalSilver | 2008 Camrose|}}
{{MedalBottom}}
=International=
| border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" ID="Table3" style="text-align:center; width:40em" |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor="#e0e0e0"
! Year ! Team ! Event ! Result ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM |
| 2013
| Canada | WC | 5th | 8 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| ALIGN="centre" bgcolor="#e0e0e0"
! colspan=4 | Senior totals ! 8 ! 0 ! 4 ! 4 ! 2 |
{{Clear}}
Awards and honours
References
{{reflist|30em}}
External links
- {{Ice hockey stats}}
{{s-start}}
{{s-ach}}
{{succession box|before=Brendan Smith |title=WCHA Defensive Player of the Year |years=2010–11, 2011–12 |after=Nick Jensen }}
{{s-end}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Schultz, Justin}}
Category:Anaheim Ducks draft picks
Category:Canadian ice hockey defencemen
Category:Edmonton Oilers players
Category:Oklahoma City Barons players
Category:Pittsburgh Penguins players
Category:Canadian expatriate ice hockey players in the United States
Category:Seattle Kraken players
Category:21st-century Canadian sportsmen
Category:Ice hockey people from Kelowna
Category:Stanley Cup champions
Category:Washington Capitals players