Edmonton Oilers unlikely to pursue John Gibson at trade deadline

PUBLICATION

Patrick Frost
December 31, 2024 (6:30 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Edmonton Oilers will be looking to make strategic roster moves leading up to the trade deadline, and rumours around Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson have been intensifying.

While the idea of acquiring a former all-star like John Gibson might sound enticing, insiders are concluding that trading for him no longer makes sense.

As per THN, Allan Mitchell's comments in The Athletic that he didn't see John Gibson as a fit for the Oilers, the Edmonton Journal's Kurt Leavins also says he doesn't get the connection. In his Sunday 9 Things article, Leavins wrote:

«Meanwhile, I take the John Gibson rumors with a grain of salt. At this point in his career, I am not at all sure if Gibson is an upgrade on either Skinner or Cal Pickard (will start versus the Ducks today). Especially considering his $6.4m cap hit.»

-Kurt Leavins

It's hard to imagine a scenario where the Ducks are comfortable retaining 50% of his salary.

Furthermore, Pickard and Stuart Skinner has been solid for most of the season, and frankly, John Gibson doesn't present much of an upgrade at this point.

Allan Mitchell of The Athletic wrote:

«Bowman might feel a low-cost addition (Jonathan Quick of the New York Rangers) would be appropriate, and the team could run three goaltenders into the final stages of the season and playoffs. The asset and cap expense for Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson would seem to be a bridge too far.»

-Alan Mitchel

The Oilers also have an Ace in their back pocket regarding Olivier Rodrigue, who is posting outstanding numbers for the Condors this season.

As it stands, GM Stan Bowman is better off investing in a top-4 defensemen rather than a washed up goaltender.

POLL
DECEMBRE 31 \| 322 ANSWERS Edmonton Oilers unlikely to pursue John Gibson at trade deadline Do you still think the Edmonton Oilers should pounce on John Gibson?
▢ Yes
▢ No

MUST READ