Kulak, Skinner receive warm welcome back from Oilers fans 

Defenseman, goalie return to Edmonton for 1st time since trade to Pittsburgh

Skinner Kulak welcome back

© Sportsnet

By Anna Kulesa
@akulesa_ NHL.com Staff Writer

Edmonton Oilers fans were happy to see Brett Kulak and Stuart Skinner on Thursday.

The Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman and goalie received a standing ovation from Oilers fans in their first game at Rogers Place since being traded to Pittsburgh on Dec. 12.

A tribute video of highlights from the two players' time with the Oilers aired on the arena video board.

After the video, the two players saluted the crowded as Oilers fans got on their feet to clap for them.

During warmups, Skinner shared a moment with Oilers forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. Sportsnet cameras caught the former teammates sharing a fist bump and a hug.

Skinner, who grew up in Edmonton, was drafted by the Oilers in the third round of 2017 NHL Draft and played with the team from 2021-25. Kulak played for the Oilers from 2022-25.

Both players helped the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals apperances in 2024 and 2025.

Short Shifts

Predators, teammates honor captain Josi for 1,000th NHL game

Blue Jackets wear No. 3 jerseys during warmups for Coyle’s 1,000th NHL game 

NHL's 'My World' YouTube docuseries stars Predators’ Josi

Ducks sport custom T-shirts to celebrate Killorn’s 1,000th NHL game

Eichel visits alma mater Boston University

NHL's 'My World' YouTube docuseries features Avalanche's Necas

Greatest Save Candidate: Jarry pulls out windmill move against Devils

Williams, Crow-Armstrong take in Blackhawks game

NHL's 'My World' YouTube docuseries stars Hurricanes' Aho

Blackhawks fans cheer Toews in emotional return to Chicago

TNT broadcast shows Lundqvist with young Bussi in Rangers jersey

Tkachuk reps University of Miami before National Championship

Greatest Save Candidate: Bussi leaves fans stunned with save against Sabres

Star Wears: Mammoth award giant team hat to player of game

Oilers celebrate Nugent-Hopkins's 1,000th NHL game

NHL Cultural Celebrations/Community Theme Nights blog

PWHL’s Hayley Scamurra rocks dad’s jersey to Takeover Tour

Bruins legend Chara shows support for Patriots in AFC semifinals