Brett Kulak has slowly emerged into a top-for defenceman for the Edmonton Oilers this season.
Assistant coach Paul Coffey has been rewarding him with with increased ice-time and subtle promotions alongside Darnell Nurse on the second pairing.
With that being said, Kulak's stock has sky-rocketed the past few weeks, playing more than 20+ minutes a game while contributing offensively.
Edmonton Oilers insider Allan Mitchel believes that Brett Kulak's emergence as a top-4 defenceman has changed Bowman's plans to seek out help on the back-end, creating different possibilities for a different dead-line acquisition.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, a few weeks ago, Kulak's emergence promoted Mitchell to believe the Oilers may instead acquire a quality bottom pair defenceman, instead of a big name top four defender.
Brett Kulak has surprising speed for a 30 year old. He's been a steady presence on the Oilers back-end all season -- impressing coaches with his shut-down capabilities.
If he continues his stellar play, Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily suggests Stan Bowman could trade for a goaltender, or a left-hand shot bottom-6 defenceman instead.
On a side note, Brett Kulak recently announce he and his wife, Caitlyn Kulak are expecting their second child.
Perhaps some added "dad strength" will help Brett Kulak to continue his impressive performance on the Oilers blue-line.
POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 25 | 182 ANSWERS The Edmonton Oilers might not need to pursue blockbuster trade Do you think the Edmonton Oilers still need a top-4 defenceman? | ||
Yes | 151 | 83 % |
No | 31 | 17 % |
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