The Edmonton Oilers are back in the offseason spotlight, this time for their unresolved goaltending situation. After falling short once again in the Stanley Cup Final to familiar foes, the Florida Panthers, questions surrounding their netminders have taken center stage.
Why Gibson Could Solve Edmonton’s Goaltending Concerns
TSN analyst Frankie Corrado didn’t hold back when talking about what the Oilers need to prioritize: “It has to be goaltending.” Corrado pointed out that while goaltending wasn’t solely to blame for the Oilers’ loss to the Panthers, there were key moments where a big save could’ve changed everything.
“You have gone into situations where you haven’t had the save at the right time in the big moment,” he said. “And I am not saying someone else is going to do it, but someone else might give you a better chance of doing it or at least create less uncertainty.”
And now, the Oilers may have a real option. Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson is reportedly open to a move north. According to The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, the Ducks are listening to offers, and Edmonton is on Gibson’s shortlist. With Lukas Dostal expected to take over, Gibson’s time with the Ducks appears to be limited.
David Pagnotta: John Gibson would be willing to accept a trade to Edmonton – SN 960
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 22, 2025
Last season, Gibson posted a .912 save percentage with a 2.77 GAA over 29 games. It was a solid showing for a rebuilding Ducks team. His cap hit of $6.4 million over two more seasons is a concern, but the Ducks are reportedly open to retaining salary, which makes a deal more feasible.
The Oilers had hoped their tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard would hold up. While they performed admirably, critics argue neither provided the consistency needed in high-stakes moments. Now, with $11.9 million in cap space and key players like Evan Bouchard due for extensions, GM Stan Bowman will have to get creative.
Contract Details and Trade Feasibility for Oilers
Gibson comes with his risks of mainly durability and cost. The Ducks were allegedly asking for two first-round picks last season, although that price may have come down. Gibson also holds a 10-team no-trade clause, but the Oilers aren’t on it.
Despite his injury history, Gibson’s .926 five-on-five save percentage last season suggests he still has plenty left in the tank. And according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, he’s open to the Oilers, especially if it means a bigger role.
Gibson might not solve all of Oilers’ issues overnight. But as the Oilers prepare for another run at the Cup, it’s clear goaltending can no longer be treated as a secondary concern. The time to act may be now.
