The Pittsburgh Penguins have long been a team focused on playoff contention, relying on experienced players to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference. Now, with ongoing challenges in their goaltending depth, Pittsburgh may be eyeing Anaheim Ducks netminder John Gibson to solidify their crease.
Recently, NHL insider Nick Kypreos hinted in his Toronto Star column that Gibson, who’s expected to return from an emergency appendectomy, might be back on the trading block. With other teams like Carolina, Colorado, and Detroit also facing goaltending issues, the Penguins may need to act fast if they want to acquire the skilled 31-year-old.
Will the Penguins Make a Move for Goalie John Gibson?
According to Kypreos, the Carolina Hurricanes were close to sealing a deal for Gibson during the offseason, but negotiations fell through. Gibson’s age, experience, and remaining contract term make him a unique asset for teams seeking to shore up goaltending for the long haul.
He carries a $6.4 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season, which may seem steep. However, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek is reportedly open to retaining some of that salary if he can get a valuable return. For the Penguins, a successful trade would likely require them to offer a top prospect, a first-round pick, or a combination of assets to satisfy Anaheim’s asking price.
From Pittsburgh’s perspective, bringing Gibson into the fold could stabilize their goaltending situation. The Penguins have shown they are willing to make bold moves in recent years to keep their competitive window open while franchise staples like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are still on the roster. However, taking on Gibson’s cap hit—even partially retained—could strain Pittsburgh’s already tight salary cap. The move would require careful cap maneuvering, but the long-term payoff of a steady, high-caliber goaltender could be worth it for Pittsburgh.
Gibson’s ability to perform in high-stress, high-traffic games aligns well with Pittsburgh’s play style. Although his recent seasons haven’t mirrored his previous All-Star performances, he’s proven his resilience in the face of a heavy workload. Acquiring Gibson would not only address Pittsburgh’s immediate needs but also give the Penguins an edge in securing a goaltender they can rely on come playoff time. The question remains: are the Penguins willing to bite on Gibson’s contract?
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