On Tuesday, the Colorado Avalanche completed a notable trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins, obtaining defenseman Brett Kulak in exchange for Samuel Girard and a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft. This Colorado Avalanche trade defenseman move aims to strengthen their defensive corps ahead of the trade deadline.
Comparing the Defensemen and Contract Details
Brett Kulak is recognized as a top-four defenseman, a role Samuel Girard had filled for the Avalanche. Both players contribute more defensively than offensively; Kulak’s career-high in goals is seven, achieved in the 2024-25 season, while Girard’s top scoring was six goals in 2022-23. Kulak is now in the final year of his four-year contract worth $11 million, carrying a cap hit of $2.75 million.
Implications for Avalanche’s Defensive Pairings
Head coach Jared Bednar faces a key decision regarding Kulak’s placement in the defensive lineup. Previously, Girard played on the third pairing with Sam Malinski, while Brent Burns and Josh Manson held the second pairing. The top defensive line remains anchored by Cale Makar and Devon Toews. Adjusting these pairings will be crucial to maintaining defensive stability.
Cap Space and Possible Future Moves
The trade has created additional cap space for Colorado, now standing at approximately $8.74 million according to PuckPedia. This raises speculation about more roster changes before the trade deadline. The Avalanche might target forwards like Nazem Kadri, who has a $7 million cap hit and has previously had a successful two-season stint with Colorado, scoring 39 goals and assisting 80 times over 107 games.
Potential Additional Trades and Team Outlook
Speculation surrounds whether the Avalanche will move other players such as Jack Drury or Ross Colton to further refine their roster. These names have been mentioned as trade possibilities, suggesting tension and anticipation within the team’s management. The Avalanche’s next game against the Mammoth on Wednesday night may provide further clues about their plans going forward.
“We have acquired Brett Kulak from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Samuel Girard and a 2nd round pick in 2028 NHL Draft. pic.twitter.com/tZrCRBm3LB” – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche)
We have acquired Brett Kulak from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Samuel Girard and a 2nd round pick in 2028 NHL Draft. pic.twitter.com/tZrCRBm3LB
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) February 24, 2026
