In a significant NHL move, the Anaheim Ducks traded veteran goaltender John Gibson to the Detroit Red Wings, concluding months of speculation surrounding his future. The trade involved Detroit sending goaltender Petr Mrazek, along with a 2026 fourth-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick, to Anaheim in exchange for Gibson.
The 31-year-old netminder had spent his entire 12-year NHL career with the Ducks and has two years remaining on an eight-year, $6.4 million annual contract he signed in 2018.
Verbeek Praises Gibson’s Legacy, Cites Mutual Timing and Readiness for Fresh Start
Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek issued a heartfelt statement, thanking Gibson for his contributions over more than a decade. He acknowledged that the decision was influenced by Gibson’s desire for a fresh start and expressed gratitude for the player’s impact both on the ice and in the Orange County community. Verbeek emphasized that the timing was right for both sides to move on, with Gibson’s influence in Anaheim leaving a lasting mark.
John Gibson (NHL)Gibson had long been viewed as a potential trade candidate due to his consistent performance, manageable cap hit, and Anaheim’s struggles in the standings. With the rise of 25-year-old Lukas Dostal as a reliable option in net, Anaheim had a viable replacement ready. Gibson’s 10-team no-trade clause allowed enough flexibility for the Ducks to find a suitable trade partner, and Detroit ultimately stepped in with a compelling offer.
Gibson’s Steady Form and Mrazek’s Experience Highlight Goaltender Swap Between Two Franchises
Despite Anaheim’s downturn in recent seasons, Gibson maintained respectable individual stats. He burst onto the scene with a strong rookie campaign in 2015-16 and has remained a dependable goaltender.
His numbers slipped slightly from 2022 to 2024 but showed improvement last season, posting a .911 save percentage and a 2.77 goals-against average in 29 games, even while battling injuries. His career totals include a 204-217-63 record, a .910 save percentage, and a 2.89 goals-against average over 506 games.
In return, Anaheim receives Petr Mrazek, a 33-year-old journeyman who brings experience from five previous NHL teams. He is signed through the next season with a $4.25 million cap hit.
Mrazek’s 2024 season was less than stellar—finishing 12-21-2 in 38 games split between Chicago and Detroit, with a .891 save percentage and a 3.35 goals-against average. However, his experience and Czech nationality make him a fitting complement to fellow countryman Lukas Dostal in Anaheim’s goaltending tandem.
