Longtime Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson is reportedly open to being traded to the Edmonton Oilers, sparking speculation about a potential move that could reshape the goaltending landscape in the NHL. The veteran netminder, who has been a cornerstone for the Ducks since his debut in 2013, may be seeking a fresh start with a team closer to championship contention.
Gibson’s Career with the Ducks
Gibson has been a stalwart for Anaheim, known for his elite reflexes and ability to carry his team during challenging seasons. Despite his individual brilliance, the Ducks have struggled in recent years, failing to make the playoffs since 2018. With Anaheim in a rebuilding phase, Gibson’s name has frequently surfaced in trade rumors as the team considers maximizing his value.
Why Edmonton Makes Sense
The Edmonton Oilers, led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, have been in desperate need of consistent goaltending to complement their offensive firepower. Although current options like Stuart Skinner and Jack Campbell have shown flashes of brilliance, neither has established themselves as a long-term solution for Edmonton.
Gibson’s experience and ability to perform under pressure make him an ideal fit for the Oilers as they aim to solidify their playoff aspirations and contend for the Stanley Cup. At 30, Gibson still has several years of elite goaltending left and could be the missing piece in Edmonton’s championship puzzle.
While Gibson’s openness to a move is encouraging for Edmonton, there are obstacles to a potential deal. Gibson carries a hefty contract with an annual cap hit of $6.4 million through the 2026-27 season, which could pose challenges for the Oilers’ salary cap flexibility. Anaheim would likely demand significant assets in return, possibly including high draft picks or top prospects.
Additionally, Edmonton must weigh whether investing heavily in a goaltender is the best use of their resources, given other roster needs.
If trade talks progress, Gibson’s move to Edmonton could have significant implications for both franchises. For Anaheim, it would mark a pivotal moment in their rebuild, while for Edmonton, it could solidify their status as a top Stanley Cup contender.
As rumors swirl, fans from both teams will eagerly await developments, knowing that a potential trade involving John Gibson could shake up the NHL’s balance of power.
