The Colorado Avalanche have completed a significant trade, sending defenseman Samuel Girard and a 2028 second-round draft pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, Colorado acquired defenseman Brett Kulak, the team confirmed on Tuesday. This move signals the end of Girard’s more than eight years with the Avalanche, marking a major shift in their defensive strategy.
Details on Brett Kulak’s Recent Performance and Contract
Brett Kulak, 32, has recently experienced team changes himself, having been traded from the Edmonton Oilers to the Penguins earlier this season in a deal involving Tristan Jarry and Stuart Skinner. After a challenging start with Edmonton, Kulak’s performance notably improved since joining Pittsburgh in December. He is in the final year of his four-year contract, carrying a $2.75 million salary cap hit.
During the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Kulak played all 82 regular-season games for the Oilers and participated in every playoff game, including two straight trips to the Stanley Cup Final. He averaged significant ice time, logging 23 minutes and 25 seconds per game during the 2025 postseason, demonstrating his endurance and reliability in high-pressure situations.
Brett Kulak, acquired by COL, is a smooth-skating top four defensive defenceman who kills penalties. Was playing with Kris Letang and doing pretty well after a difficult start with the Oilers this season. When he’s at his best he calms things down and makes safe plays. pic.twitter.com/FdYI3Nqnnr
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) February 24, 2026
Implications of the Girard Trade for Colorado
Samuel Girard, who makes $5 million against the salary cap and is under contract through the 2026-27 season, had reportedly been available for trade for more than a year. His departure marks a notable transition for the Avalanche defense, opening opportunities to integrate Kulak’s steady presence on the blue line.
The trade underscores Colorado’s ongoing efforts to adjust its roster depth and salary structure as the team looks toward future contention. Observers will watch closely to see how Kulak fits in alongside established defensemen like Kris Letang and how this move influences the Avalanche’s defensive stability moving forward.
Brett Kulak, acquired by COL, is a smooth-skating top four defensive defenceman who kills penalties. Was playing with Kris Letang and doing pretty well after a difficult start with the Oilers this season. When he's at his best he calms things down and makes safe plays. pic.twitter.com/FdYI3Nqnnr
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) February 24, 2026
