NHL Free Agents 2012: Ranking Best Destinations for Justin Schultz

Despite never playing a game in the NHL, Justin Schultz will be as big a prize in free agency as Zach Parise and Ryan Suter.

How does that work?

Schultz was drafted in 2008 by the Anaheim Ducks but played a year of major junior hockey in the British Columbia Hockey League then attended the University of Wisconsin. Since he didn't agree to a deal with the Ducks by Sunday, he is now an unrestricted free agent.

What makes the courtship of Schultz so interesting is that every team will have to offer him the same contract, since he is considered an entry-level player.

Thus, Schultz will have to make his decision on factors other than money. It has been rumored he is interested in staying close to his home in West Kelowna, British Columbia, that he would like to play with Wisconsin teammates and that he wants instant playing time.

It has also been suggested that the Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings are the favorites for his services.

Given Schultz's supposed criteria and the favorites listed above, let's rank the teams most likely to land his services.

5. New York Rangers

Yes, the Rangers have former teammates Ryan McDonagh and Derek Stepan in town. But New York is pretty far away from West Kelowna and wouldn't be able to guarantee Schultz major ice time next year.

I don't see this one happening.

4. Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings would likely love to add Schultz, and he would have the chance to earn playing time in Detroit. That, along with the cachet of being the Red Wings, plays in Detroit's favor. But I think the team will be more focused on Ryan Suter and could fall by the wayside here.

3. Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are a distinct possibility, as they are close to home and would certainly give Schultz an opportunity to win playing time next season. But with younger teams that could probably use Schultz as a top-four defensemen immediately, the Canucks remain a distant third in the running.

2. Toronto Maple Leafs

Having moved Luke Schenn to the Philadelphia Flyers via trade, the Maple Leafs have an open spot for Schultz waiting. They also have former teammate Jake Gardiner already on the blue line, and the possibility of the two pairing could be intriguing for Schultz.

1. Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers need a difference-maker on defense, and while that may not be next year, they should be able to sell Schultz on the idea that he'll get immediate playing time and a shot on the power play. Plus, Edmonton is one of the closest NHL cities to his home. Look for the young Oilers to pull out the stops trying to convince Schultz he belongs with them.

Hit me up on Twitter—my tweets hit the mark more often than Spain's passing.