Anaheim Ducks Goalie John Gibson Named December Rookie Of The Month

Dec 21, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson (36) during the second period against the New York Islanders at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson (36) during the second period against the New York Islanders at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson, who is still considered a rookie, has been named the NHL’s rookie of the month for December.

The NHL has named Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson the rookie of the month for December. This news may be surprising to some, not due to Gibson’s play, but because of the fact he is still considered a rookie.

The NHL’s rookie qualifications state that to qualify as a rookie a player must have done two things.

  1. Not played in more than 25 games in any preceding season.
  2. Not played in 6 NHL games in any of two preceding seasons.

Gibson appeared in 3 games during the 2013-2014 season and 23 games last season. So yes, John Gibson is technically still a rookie.

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In December, Gibson appeared in 10 games posting a record of 5-3-1 with a 1.62 goals against average, a .929% save percentage to go along with 3 shutouts. Those 3 shutouts tied Gibson for first amongst goaltenders in the month of December.

Gibson now has an 8-4-2 record this season and his 1.63 season goals against average ranks first in the league. His .932% save percentage ranks 4th and his 4 shutouts are tied for 3rd most.

This is Gibson’s second award recognition of the season, he was named the NHL’s first star of the week in December.

Next: Could the Ducks look to acquire Jonathan Drouin?

It’s pretty clear that the Anaheim crease is his and Freddie Andersen has become somewhat of an afterthought. Don’t be surprised if Gibson continues to receive recognition as one of the leagues top goaltenders and rookies.