The John Gibson trade saga continues to drag on, with the Anaheim Ducks’ reluctance to retain a portion of the goaltender’s $6.4 million cap hit through 2026-27 emerging as the primary stumbling block.
Eric Stephens of The Athletic recently reported on the Ducks’ management’s unwillingness to absorb any of Gibson’s salary, despite general manager Pat Verbeek’s persistent efforts to find a suitable trade partner.
Ducks’ Reluctance to Retain Salary Creates Roadblock in John Gibson Trade Talks
Gibson, a former Vezina Trophy finalist, has seen his performance dip in recent years due to the Ducks’ struggles. A change of scenery could potentially revitalize his career, and there is no shortage of teams in need of a top-tier goaltender. However, Gibson’s hefty contract, coupled with the Ducks’ refusal to retain any salary, has deterred potential suitors.
Verbeek is reportedly seeking a substantial return for Gibson, including a combination of high draft picks and promising prospects. But without salary retention, teams are hesitant to part with such valuable assets for a player with a declining save percentage and a significant cap hit.
The Ducks are in a difficult position. Trading Gibson would allow them to fully embrace their rebuild and acquire valuable assets for the future. However, if they cannot find a trade partner willing to take on Gibson’s full salary, they may be forced to retain him. This would not only hinder their rebuilding efforts but also potentially create a disgruntled player in their locker room.
There is a growing sense that a trade will only materialize if the Ducks soften their stance on salary retention. Even a small percentage of retained salary could significantly increase Gibson’s trade value and attract more potential suitors. It remains to be seen whether Verbeek will ultimately budge, but one thing is certain: the John Gibson trade saga is far from over.
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