The Detroit Red Wings have traded defenseman Brad Stuart to the San Jose Sharks.

In return, the Wings will receive Andrew Murray from the Sharks, and a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.

Stuart, who may become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, did not want to re-sign with the Wings, hoping to play with a team closer to his family in San Jose. It was there that Stuart began his NHL career in 1999, playing for the Sharks for six seasons.

With three weeks before the free agency period begins, the 32 year old defenseman has time to negotiate a new contract with the Sharks.

Stuart was traded to the Wings from Los Angeles in the spring of 2008, and helped them win the Stanley Cup in that year's Finals. He spent 4 full seasons with Detroit.

Murray, a 30-year old centerman, played 39 games for San Jose this past season, picking up one goal and three assists. Previously, Murray played with the Columbus Blue Jackets for four seasons. Although Murray's rights now belong to the Wings, he can also become a free agent on July 1.