The Pittsburgh Penguins traded defenseman Brett Kulak to the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in exchange for defenseman Samuel Girard and a second-round draft pick, according to multiple reports.
The trade was announced as the Penguins prepare to host the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday evening, according to NHL.com. The Penguins, currently navigating a challenging season, are reportedly seeking to retool their defensive lineup. Kulak, a veteran presence on the blue line, had become a subject of trade speculation in recent weeks, as noted in reports from Pittsburgh Hockey Now.
Girard, a left-handed shooting defenseman, brings a different skillset to the Penguins’ roster. He has been a key component of the Avalanche’s defense but became available as Colorado sought to address its own roster needs. The second-round draft pick adds further value for Pittsburgh, providing an opportunity to bolster their prospect pool.
The Oilers defeated the Penguins 6-4 on December 16, 2025, in a high-scoring affair, according to ESPN. The upcoming game between the two teams takes on added significance following the trade, as both teams look to solidify their positions in the competitive NHL standings.
As of Thursday morning, neither the Penguins nor the Avalanche had issued formal statements beyond confirming the trade. The Penguins are scheduled to face the Oilers at PPG Paints Arena later that evening.
