John Gibson is projected to make his return to the net on Friday when the Anaheim Ducks face off against the Vegas Golden Knights.
John Gibson hasn’t seen a game since the Anaheim Ducks were shutout by the Ottawa Senators on February 7th. After an accidental and unfortunate run-in with teammate Jaycob Megna, Gibson did not return for the final period. Instead, Chad Johnson, who let in two more goals in the last 20 minutes of the game, took his place.
Since being leveled by his teammate, JG36 has spent the rest of the month on IR. He was out a lot longer than many of us expected, and it was assumed that the hit from Megna was worse than previously feared. However, come to find out, Gibson was out so long because his wisdom teeth needed to be extracted.
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After spending the month healing up it has been reported that John Gibson could be ready to return as soon as Friday against the Vegas Golden Knights. While he hasn’t had the best luck against Vegas this season, posting an average save percentage of .878% in their previous three contests, some much-needed rest may have done him some good.
While he is no longer in the Vezina race, Gibson is most likely ready to get back out on the ice, and he will be hungry for a win. As much as many fans want him to sit out for the rest of the season, and let Ryan Miller take the staring role, the likelihood of that happening is very slim. As great as it would be for the “tank”, neither Gibson, Bob Murray, or the Samueli’s should logically be on board with that plan.
There is more good news that comes along with his return as well. While the Anaheim Ducks may not have figured everything out in his absence, they have looked like a new team recently. Yes, they are still making mistake (we’re looking at you Hampus Lindholm and Josh Manson.) Nevertheless, they have been playing with more spirit and drive than we’ve seen all season. Whether they’ve won or lost, at least they’ve been trying.
Unless they revert back to their old ways in the next few games, Gibson won’t have to break his back carrying his team any longer. He can do his job without feeling bombarded during 99% of the game. It will be good to finally have him back.
Do you think John Gibson is going to help or hurt the Ducks chances at a lottery pick for the 2019 NHL Entry Draft? Leave our answer in the comment section below or find us on Facebook or Twitter.