McKenzie and Stephens on the Anaheim Ducks un-signed college defenseman Justin Schultz.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Ducks top prospect Justin Schultz’s season ended yesterday at the University of Wisconsin. He’s said to be considering all options including: “1. Returning to Wisco for his senior season (unlikely IMO). 2. Signing 2 yr entry level deal with ANA and burns 1st yr by playing now…” … “3. Leave school at end of semester, become UFA July 1, sign with NHL team of choice. Hearing no decision is imminent, will take his time.” … “Longer Schultz goes w/o making firm decision would appear to be bad news for ANA. Ducks want this kid in the lineup now. Talented 2nd rder.” … “If Schultz goes to UFA, it would be a major blow to ANA. If he doesn’t sign soon, logical implication is he’s going to UFA.”
- Eric Stephens via twitter: “The fact that Schultz isn’t signed now with Ducks doesn’t mean he won’t or doesn’t mean he will.” … “With the loophole in possibly becoming a FA, he has another option and knows it. The Ducks knew this last year when they hoped to sign him.” … “It doesn’t mean Ducks have zero chance of signing him, nor does it mean it will be a slam dunk. Agree it’s not good the longer it takes.” … “Right now, Schultz isn’t talking. The Ducks are working on it but can’t talk since he’s still in college. He has to say he’s leaving school.” … “Of course, Schultz doesn’t have to declare and wait if he so chooses. Either something will shake loose this week or it could be a while.” … “Understand that he’s a hot topic. As much as we want things to happen right now, sometimes situations have to play out. Simple as that.”