The NHL trade market is heating up as teams prepare for the second half of the season. Recently, the Colorado Avalanche made a strategic move by acquiring defenseman Brett Kulak from the Pittsburgh Penguins. In exchange, the Penguins received Samuel Girard and a draft pick.
Brett Kulak’s Career and Season Overview
Brett Kulak, 32, has had a noteworthy career since being drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2012. The left-shot defenseman has played 56 games this season, amassing one goal and eight assists, with a current plus/minus of minus-five.
- Current Season Stats: 56 games, 1 goal, 8 assists
- Career Games Played: 636
- Total Goals: 29
- Total Points: 134
Kulak began the season with the Edmonton Oilers but was later traded to the Penguins. He is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent at the season’s end and has a cap hit of $2.75 million.
Samuel Girard’s Move to Pittsburgh
Samuel Girard, the player heading to Pittsburgh, has also had a solid season. The 27-year-old has played in 40 games for the Avalanche, averaging 17:41 minutes of ice time per game. His season totals include three goals and nine assists.
- Current Season Stats: 40 games, 3 goals, 9 assists
- Career Games Played: 588
- Total Goals: 37
- Total Points: 235
Girard has spent the last nine years with the Colorado Avalanche, where he notably won a Stanley Cup in 2022. He is currently in the sixth year of a seven-year contract, which averages $5 million annually. He will reach unrestricted free agency following the 2026-27 season.
Trade Implications
This trade reflects both teams’ strategies moving forward. Kulak brings veteran experience to Colorado, while Girard adds depth to the Penguins’ lineup. As teams eye playoff positions, roster adjustments like these can be pivotal in the coming months.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these players perform in their new roles, influencing their respective teams’ chances this season.
