New Jersey Devils: 5 Defensemen To Watch In Return-To-Play Tournament

Justin Schultz

This is where things start to make a little more sense for what the Devils are trying to do moving forward. Justin Schultz is a player who’s had all the talent in the world but has come just short of expectations. Schultz is right handed, so he’s not exactly their biggest need, but he does fit the narrative of playing that fast style we expect to see under Lindy Ruff.

Schultz could be an interesting option for the Devils. He’s currently healthy, but he appears to be stuck on a line with Jack Johnson. That’s not a good look for him, but if he’s able to lift that lineup, then it would be something the Devils should pay attention to. The Devils often need a defenseman to step up for a line and carry things, even if it’s just temporary.

When looking at free agency as a whole, it’s always a risk. However, if the Devils can see Schultz help the Penguins get further in the playoffs thanks to responsible play on the blue line, he could prove he’s a good move for the Devils future.

The problem with this scenario is if Schultz proves himself during the playoffs, the Devils won’t be the only team looking to sign him. Other teams could use a mid-level defenseman, and many times they are willing to pay for it. There are a lot of intriguing options on the open market, but once players like Pietrangelo and Tyson Barrie dry up, teams are going to target the players who excelled in the return-to-play format.

The Devils need to see what Schultz can do, but his health is also a major question. Seeing him stay healthy through a lengthy Penguins run would be extremely important before giving him any kind of term on a contract. He’s 30 years old, so this is probably his last chance he’ll have to cash in. The market is weird, however, and the Devils could take advantage of it. Still, this seems like someone who could price himself out if he has a big postseason.