Justin Schultz has yet to suit up for a game with his new team, the Pittsburgh Penguins.
And Friday, his new teammates made it difficult for the defenceman to get dressed at all following his first full practice with the club.
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Someone, and for now no one has claimed responsibility, managed to hang Schultz’s clothes up above the ice at the Consol Energy Center, while writing out, “New Guy” in white tape.
“I heard a couple guys say it was Sid(ney Crosby), but I honestly have no clue,” said Schultz. “Everyone’s denying though, so who knows.
“I’ll have to ask some questions.”
“We’ll see who did it and try to find out, but most times those guys don’t get caught,” said Crosby, before offering an alibi. “I got here late this morning … late enough to not have enough time to do that.”
Schultz was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers on Feb. 27 for a third-round pick at the upcoming NHL Draft. Once a highly sought-after free agent, the 25-year-old is hoping a fresh start with the Penguins can rejuvenate his career.
“Obviously things didn’t go well in Edmonton for me, and just a change of scenery, a new environment and new teammates can hopefully help me,” said Schultz.
The Penguins host the Calgary Flames Saturday afternoon and head coach Mike Sullivan has said the team has not determined whether Schultz will get to make his Penguins debut. The staff has spoken to Schultz about what they expect from him.
“They just want me to go out there and have fun and play my game,” he said. “This team plays with a lot of speed, I think I can help with that.
