Penguins Trade Kulak to Avalanche for Girard, Draft Pick
The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a significant trade as the NHL deadline approaches. On Tuesday, they acquired defenseman Samuel Girard and a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft from the Colorado Avalanche. In exchange, the Avalanche received defenseman Brett Kulak.
Trade Details
- Penguins Receive: Samuel Girard, Defenseman
- Draft Pick: Second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft
- Avalanche Receive: Brett Kulak, Defenseman
Impact on Teams
This trade allows the Penguins to inject youth into their defensive lineup. The 27-year-old Girard will likely fill the role of the 32-year-old Kulak on the second defensive pair. Despite not being a prominent offensive player, Girard has consistently contributed to his team.
Player Performance and Background
Samuel Girard has been with the Avalanche since his acquisition from the Nashville Predators in November 2017 as part of a trade involving Kyle Turris. Throughout his career, Girard has surpassed the 30-point mark three times. Thus far in the 2025-26 season, he has recorded three goals and nine assists for a total of 12 points over 40 games.
Girard experienced a setback this season, missing over a month due to an upper-body injury sustained early in the season. Currently, he is in the sixth year of a seven-year contract worth an average annual value (AAV) of $5 million, which is set to run through next year. The contract includes a modified no-trade clause.
Brett Kulak’s Movement
Brett Kulak finds himself traded for the second time this season. Previously, in December, he moved from the Edmonton Oilers to the Penguins as part of a trade that included goalie Tristan Jarry. Since joining Pittsburgh, Kulak has played 25 games, scoring one goal and registering six assists for seven points.
This season, Kulak has a total of nine points, coming from one goal and eight assists over 56 games. He is also in the final season of his four-year deal with a cap hit of $2.75 million, which he signed with the Oilers in July 2022.
Current Standings
The Penguins currently hold a record of 29-15-12, positioning them second in the Metropolitan Division. Meanwhile, the Oilers stand at 28-22-8, occupying the second spot in the Pacific Division.
