Brad Stuart traded to Sharks, Red Wings get draft pick, Andrew Murray in return

Brad Stuart was traded to the San Jose Sharks today, a move that brings him closer to his family. (John Russell, Getty Images)

The Detroit Red Wings announced today that veteran defenseman Brad Stuart has been traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for an unconditional pick in the 2014 NHL amateur draft and soon-to-be free agent forward Andrew Murray.

The 32-year-old Stuart has played the last five seasons for the Red Wings, winning the Stanley Cup with the team in 2008. Stuart was originally drafted by the Sharks in the 1998 NHL entry draft, and his family still remains in Northern California. The Sharks were the preferred destination for Stuart, who struggled with commuting back and forth between his home and Detroit throughout his time with the Red Wings.

Stuart played in 81 games for the Red Wings this past season, scoring six goals and adding 15 assists.