Assessing the Tristan Jarry Trade
p/c: Charles LeClaire
The first major transaction of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2025-26 season happened on Friday, as the Pens traded goaltender Tristan Jarry and forward Sam Poulin to the Edmonton Oilers for goalie Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a 2029 second round draft pick. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman first reported that a deal was close.
Jarry spent parts of 10 seasons in Pittsburgh. There were certainly ups and downs for Jarry - from being a two-time All-Star to his shortcomings in the playoffs and even a demotion to the minors. In 14 games this season, Jarry had a .909 save percentage, along with a goals against average of 2.66.
Poulin was a first round selection of the Penguins in 2019. The 24-year-old forward played in only 15 games over parts of four seasons.
Skinner had been in net with Edmonton for six seasons, including an All-Star campaign in 2022-23. This season, Skinner is posting an .891 save percentage and a 2.83 GAA in 23 games.
Kulak is a 12-year veteran, who had played five seasons with the Oilers. The 31-year-old defenseman has a 38 blocked shots in 31 games this season.
Assessment of the trade: For Edmonton, they get Jarry, who they hope can return to his All-Star form, as well as Poulin - a former first rounder that really needed a change of scenery.
From the Penguins’ perspective, Skinner’s expiring contract helps cover some of Jarry’s remaining money for this season. Kulak provides Pittsburgh a veteran defenseman with good shot blocking ability.
Although the Jarry extension was perceived by many as a mistake, on the part of Kyle Dubas, he got himself out from under the contract by selling high on Jarry. Last season, Jarry was practically untradeable, so for Dubas to rid himself of the deal, and get back draft capital (second round pick for 2029), is a solid move.