The Edmonton Oilers have made significant moves in the NHL trade market, acquiring goaltender Tristan Jarry and forward Sam Poulin from the Pittsburgh Penguins. In this high-profile deal, the Oilers are sending starting goaltender Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a 2029 second-round pick to Pittsburgh.
Tristan Jarry, 30, has demonstrated a solid performance this season, boasting a record of 9-3-1 with a .909 save percentage and a 2.66 goals-against average. After struggling last year and clearing waivers in January, Jarry rebounded to finish the season with a 16-12-6 record. His current five-year contract carries a cap hit of $5.38 million, indicating his vital role in the Penguins’ strategy as they aim for playoff contention.
On the other hand, Sam Poulin, a 24-year-old winger and a former first-round pick in 2019, has seen limited action with the Penguins this season, playing two games without registering any points. However, he has been productive in the AHL, recording nine goals and 20 points in 22 games.
The Oilers have faced notable goaltending challenges this season, with Skinner and Calvin Pickard managing a combined save percentage of .879 through 31 games. The team is currently 14-11-6 and holding the top wild-card spot in the Western Conference, despite their struggles. Skinner, who has been a crucial component in the Oilers’ back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final, has an 11-8-4 record this season and proved his worth with a strong performance against the Detroit Red Wings recently.
In a parallel trade, the Oilers have also acquired defenseman Spencer Stastney from the Nashville Predators for a 2027 third-round pick. Stastney, 25, has one goal and nine points in 30 games this season, and is expected to help fill the gap left by Kulak’s departure. His average ice time of 14:52 per game shows he could step in effectively as the Oilers deal with injuries, including placing blueliner Jake Walman on long-term injured reserve.
These trades reflect the Oilers’ determination to bolster their lineup and improve their standings heading into the latter part of the season. The addition of Jarry could provide much-needed stability in goal as they seek to advance deeper into the playoffs. The moves also signify the Oilers’ commitment to maintaining competitive momentum while addressing their defensive needs effectively.