Oilers' Brett Kulak plays in 500th game vs. the Blackhawks
Oilers' Brett Kulak plays in 500th career game vs. the Blackhawks on Saturday's hockey night in Canada.
The milestone marks a significant achievement for the 30-year-old Alberta-born defenceman, who has built his career on consistency, reliability, and hard work since being drafted in the fourth round (105th overall) by the Calgary Flames at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Through 499 regular season games, Kulak has registered 21 goals, 79 assists, and 100 points while racking up 200 penalty minutes during stints with the Calgary Flames, Montreal Canadiens, and Edmonton Oilers. Though his offensive numbers don't jump off the page, Kulak has never been the type of player to grab headlines for flashy plays.
He's known for his solid skating, defensive awareness, and ability to step up in various situations when needed. Kulak's role often shifts between a bottom-four defenceman and an occasional top-pairing player, depending on the team's needs. Still, his adaptability has earned him coaches' trust throughout his career.
As Kulak prepares for his 500th game, his numbers reflect a career of persistence and consistency. While not known for offensive output, his 100 career points in the regular season highlight his ability to contribute when needed, often jumping into the play or making key passes to generate scoring chances. His 200 penalty minutes show he's not afraid to get involved physically, but his discipline and hockey IQ have allowed him to avoid being a liability.
Reaching 500 games in the NHL is a significant milestone for any player, and for Brett Kulak, it's a testament to the dedication and resilience that have shaped his career. As he hits this milestone against the Blackhawks, Kulak can reflect on a career that has seen him grow from a young defenseman trying to make his mark into a reliable veteran who plays a key role on a team with championship aspirations.
Source: Oilers Nation
Brett Kulak will be credited with his 500th NHL game
