The Controversy Around Kulak’s Deal
When The Athletic published its list of the league’s worst contracts, the Colorado Avalanche’s agreement with defenseman Brett Kulak landed near the bottom, a placement that sparked immediate debate among analysts and fans alike.
The criticism hinges on a set of defensive metrics that suggest a decline in Kulak’s expected goals and possession numbers while he wore the jerseys of Edmonton, Pittsburgh and finally Colorado. Those figures, however, only tell part of the story.
A Defensive Anchor in Colorado
In reality, Kulak arrived in Denver after the Olympic break, immediately plugging a gap in the Avalanche’s top four defense. Paired with Sam Malinski and alongside rising star Cale Makar, he helped the unit maintain a steady presence against high‑caliber opponents.
His impact became evident in the postseason, where Kulak’s decisive goal against the Minnesota Wild not only secured a series‑winning victory but also underscored his ability to contribute offensively when the team needed it most.
The Limits of Analytics
The author of the original piece stresses the importance of watching the game itself, arguing that raw analytics can miss the intangible qualities — positioning, shot‑blocking, and leadership — that often define a defenseman’s true value.
For a franchise that has leaned heavily on advanced statistics, the Kulak debate serves as a reminder that on‑ice performance still demands a human eye, especially when a player’s contract is scrutinized under a microscope.