
Red Wings Make Bold Move: Yzerman Bets Big on Gibson as Goaltending Solution
2025-06-28
Author: Wai
In a daring move to solve their goaltending crisis, the Detroit Red Wings have turned their hopes towards veteran John Gibson, hoping he will be the upgrade they desperately need.
After a brief and unsatisfactory stint with Petr Mrazek, the Red Wings decided against keeping him, feeling he wasn’t the right answer. Instead, general manager Steve Yzerman struck a deal with the Anaheim Ducks, trading Mrazek, along with future draft picks, for the seasoned Gibson.
"John has been a proven starter and an exceptional goaltender in the NHL throughout his career," Yzerman remarked, emphasizing Gibson's past performances. The Red Wings believe that his struggles in Anaheim, particularly during their rebuilding phase, won’t define his future with the team. With promising rookie Lukas Dostal rising in Anaheim, Gibson is aiming for a rejuvenating opportunity.
The acquisition comes with financial implications, as the Red Wings will take on the final two years of Gibson's contract, valued at an average of $6.4 million annually. In contrast, Mrazek’s deal was only for one more year at $4.25 million—a move that still leaves the Red Wings with considerable cap space.
At 31, Gibson’s previous season was marred by injuries and a struggle for playing time. He participated in just 29 games in the last season, finishing with an 11-11-2 record, a 2.77 goals-against average, and a .912 save percentage. Notably, his career stats reflect both perseverance and talent, with a record of 204-217-63 and 24 shutouts while contending with a Ducks team that only reached the playoffs four times over the last dozen years.
"We believe John has the ability to maintain a high level of play as we aim to solidify our team moving forward," Yzerman said confidently. In this new chapter, Gibson will share the crease with fellow goalie Cam Talbot, who is approaching 38.
Additionally, Yzerman is on the lookout for a third goaltender and is in talks with Alex Lyon, who has served as a reliable backup in the last couple of seasons.
The Red Wings' acquisition of Mrazek earlier in the season, alongside right wing Craig Smith, was seen as a fresh start, but the team's dissatisfaction with his performance—recording just two wins out of five appearances—ultimately led them to pursue this transformative trade.