In a significant move reshaping their roster, the Pittsburgh Penguins traded two-time All-Star goaltender Tristan Jarry and forward Sam Poulin to the Edmonton Oilers on Friday. In return, the Penguins received goaltender Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a second-round pick in the 2029 draft.
This trade marks the end of an eventful decade for Jarry in Pittsburgh. After being named an All-Star in 2020 and 2022, he faced challenges last season, including multiple demotions to the minors due to inconsistent performance. However, under the guidance of new head coach Dan Muse, Jarry has made a strong comeback this season, boasting a record of 9-3-1, a 2.66 goals against average, and a .909 save percentage.
Jarry remains under contract through the 2027-28 season, contributing to the Penguins’ deepening pool of goaltending prospects, which includes 21-year-old Sergey Murashov. Murashov had an impressive stint with the team earlier this season, adding to the optimism surrounding Pittsburgh’s goaltending future.
Stuart Skinner, who comes from Edmonton in this exchange, is facing contract uncertainty as he will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the current season. So far this season, Skinner holds an 11-8-4 record with a 2.83 goals against average, although his save percentage stands at a modest .891. The Oilers have struggled defensively, as only six teams have allowed more goals per game leading up to this trade.
Joining Skinner in the deal is Brett Kulak, a versatile defenseman who enjoyed a career year last season with Edmonton, recording highs in goals (seven), assists (18), and total points (25). This season, Kulak has contributed with two assists.
On the other hand, Sam Poulin, who was Pittsburgh’s first-round pick in 2019, has found it challenging to make a significant impact at the NHL level, managing just two points in 15 games for the Penguins.
In addition to the trade with Pittsburgh, the Oilers also acquired defenseman Spencer Stastney from the Nashville Predators, parting ways with a third-round pick in the 2027 draft. Stastney has contributed modestly this season with one goal and eight assists in nine games.
These roster adjustments signal a pivotal moment for both franchises as they continue to navigate their respective seasons amidst fluctuating expectations.
