Announcement: Canucks closing in on deal to sign ex-Giant star in exchange to take the Tucker Poolman contract off their hands

The Province writes about a potential win/win situation for the Canucks and Oilers, where Vancouver offer to take Brett Kulak in a trade and give back Tucker Poolman to offload a bad contract. While the Oilers wouldn’t normally add a $2.5 million defenseman to solve their cap problems, Johnston notes the reason it might work.

The Vancouver Canucks are reportedly on the verge of completing a deal that could bring former Vancouver Giants defenseman Brett Kulak back to the city. This potential trade would also involve offloading the burdensome contract of Tucker Poolman, a move that would provide the Canucks with much-needed cap relief and add a reliable presence to their defensive corps.

Tucker Poolman, who signed a four-year, $10 million contract with the Canucks in 2021, has struggled to justify the investment. Brought in to stabilize the Canucks’ defense, Poolman has battled injuries and inconsistency, leading to disappointment from both the team and its fans. His contract has since become a significant obstacle for a franchise working hard to remain competitive while managing the constraints of the NHL’s salary cap.

The Canucks’ front office has been actively searching for ways to move Poolman’s contract, a task that has proven difficult due to his injury history and underwhelming performance. However, the potential acquisition of Brett Kulak offers a unique opportunity for the Canucks to address their defensive needs while shedding salary.

Brett Kulak, a former standout with the Vancouver Giants in the Western Hockey League, has developed into a steady and dependable defenseman in the NHL. After his time in junior hockey, where he was known for his solid two-way play, Kulak transitioned smoothly into the professional ranks. He has since earned a reputation as a reliable third-pairing defenseman who can step up when needed, offering both defensive stability and the occasional offensive contribution.

Kulak’s connection to Vancouver, where he spent his formative years in junior hockey, makes this potential trade particularly appealing to the Canucks and their fanbase. Bringing Kulak back to the city where he first made a name for himself would not only be a homecoming for the player but also a reunion that could energize both him and the team.

For the Canucks, acquiring Kulak would address several needs. He would immediately slot into their defense as a dependable option, capable of playing consistent minutes and contributing in various situations. Kulak’s style of play—characterized by smart decision-making, effective puck movement, and a calm presence on the ice—would complement the Canucks’ existing defensive lineup, providing much-needed depth.

The trade, however, is not just about bringing in Kulak. Equally important for the Canucks is the opportunity to offload Tucker Poolman’s contract. By moving Poolman, the Canucks would gain valuable cap space that could be used to address other areas of need or provide flexibility for future transactions. This cap relief is crucial for a team that has been working hard to manage its finances while remaining competitive in the challenging Pacific Division.

The potential deal would likely involve the Canucks sending Poolman and possibly additional assets to a team willing to take on his contract in exchange for Brett Kulak. While Kulak may not be a star player, his addition would represent a strategic move for the Canucks, bringing in a familiar face who can contribute immediately while freeing up resources for future moves.

As the Canucks close in on finalizing this deal, there is a growing sense of anticipation among fans. The return of Brett Kulak, coupled with the financial relief from moving Poolman’s contract, would represent a significant step forward for the Canucks as they continue to build a team capable of competing at a high level. While the details are still being ironed out, this potential trade has the makings of a smart, forward-thinking move that could benefit the Canucks both now and in the future.