We’re throwing it way back to the 80’s today as we re-introduce you to former Crusader Stu Kulak.
Kulak wasn’t with the Crusaders for a long time, but during his time here he made his presence known. The Edmonton native totaled 53 points in just as many games, scoring on 30 different occasions. Despite Kulak and the Crusaders best efforts, the team could only salvage 19 wins from a disappointing season. They were then swept in the first round by the eventual champions, the Red Deer Rustlers.
The following year, Kulak moved up a level to the WHL to play for the Victoria Cougars, a team he had played three games for the year prior. His first full season came in 1981, the same year Grant Fuhr played, Kulak had a productive year collecting 43 points over his 72 appearances. Himself and the Cougars went on a long playoff run that season which resulted in them becoming WHL champions. The Cougars couldn’t continue their winning wins into the Memorial Cup only winning one game against the Kitchener Rangers.
After the season had ended, Kulak became NHL draft eligible and was selected 115th overall by the Vancouver Canucks.
The now-Canucks prospect was given time to develop his game back in Victoria for the next two seasons. Over those next couple of years, in 121 games he racked up 150 points. He was also called up the play in four games for the Canucks during that time.
In 1983, the former Crusader went pro with his first team being the Fredericton Express of the AHL, then the Kalamazoo Eagles. After spending a few years in the minors, Kulak was called up to the Canucks in 1987 and made 28 appearances before being moved to the Edmonton Oilers.
Once he was traded, he became an NHL journeyman spending time with the New York Rangers, Quebec Nordiques, and Winnipeg Jets all within three years.
Once he left the Jets in 1989, he moved back to the minors and played overseas.
Stu Kulak may not have spent much time in the NHL, but he did have a professional career that lasted 17 years. He played in 812 professional games, collecting 596 points.
Congratulations on a great career Stu.