John Gibson Returns to Anaheim as Red Wings Face Ducks

ANAHEIM, Calif. — John Gibson, the veteran goalie who spent 12 seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, returns to Honda Center on Friday night as he leads the Detroit Red Wings against his former team. This marks Gibson’s first game against the Ducks since being traded to Detroit on June 28.

Gibson, 32, is focused on helping the Red Wings make their first Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance since 2016. The team has started strong this season with an 8-3-0 record, which ties them for first in the Atlantic Division. “I’m just in the moment,” Gibson said. “I think it’s something you’ll be able to look back on eventually, but trying to win hockey games here and help the Detroit Red Wings get in the playoffs.”

During his time with Anaheim, Gibson played 506 games, winning 204, which ranks second in the franchise’s history. He experienced highs and lows with the Ducks, including a memorable run to the Western Conference Final in 2017. However, in recent years the Ducks struggled, and Gibson found himself part of a rebuilding phase. “I feel super fortunate to have been able to be part of that organization, play there for so long,” he reflected. “It was nice time to get a change, and I’m excited to be here.”

Gibson faced challenges in his debut with the Red Wings, where he was pulled after allowing five goals in a 5-1 loss against the Montreal Canadiens. Since then, he has improved to a record of 4-2-0, with a goals-against average of 3.20. Red Wings coach Todd McLellan noted that despite Gibson’s rocky start, he has shown consistency and calmness in his performances.

As Gibson prepares to return to Anaheim, he expresses eagerness to reconnect with former teammates and fans. “A lot of firsts out there,” he said. “The friendships, the people… they’re friends that you always keep close.” His former teammate Troy Terry anticipates an emotional encounter, acknowledging Gibson’s significant contributions to the team over the years. “It’ll be weird. I just hope he doesn’t come after any of us,” Terry remarked. “He deserves a lot of applause. He’s done such a great job for this organization.”

The game is set to be an exciting matchup as both teams strive for victories at this early stage of the season. Gibson’s growth in Detroit and his return to the place where he built his career will add a compelling storyline to the evening.