The Anaheim Ducks have had a miserable campaign, though one of the only positive aspects about the regular season that is winding down to a close is that they’ll be right in the thick of things in the NHL Draft Lottery with the chance to draft phenom forward Connor Bedard.
One of the other positive aspects on this miserable Ducks squad is goaltender John Gibson, who has done everything possible to be a consummate professional despite having nearly no help in front of him. And despite having four years remaining on his current deal with an average annual value of $6.4 million, could the only NHL team that he’s suited up for have plans to move on from him?
It wasn’t long ago that Pierre LeBrun floated the idea that future playoff bound teams looking for an upgrade between the pipes could make an offer for Gibson, who would almost certainly thrive on a team with more talent in front of him. And that idea was furthered by Dan Rosen of NHL.com, who suggested two potential possibilities that included a possible homecoming for the Pittsburgh native.
Take a look at his response:
“The Penguins could use him. Tristan Jarry is in the last season of his contract, a pending unrestricted free agent, and he’s been injury prone. If the Penguins miss the playoffs or get in and lose in the first round, it’s possible, if not likely, that they could go in a different direction with their No. 1 goalie. Gibson is from Pittsburgh and having him could keep the Penguins run at being Stanley Cup contenders alive for a few more seasons regardless of what happens this season.”
“The Buffalo Sabres should also be in the mix. Craig Anderson has had a fine season, but he’s 41 years old and the Sabres are built to win starting next season. Gibson fits there. He could do a lot of winning with them.”