John Gibson will waive no-trade clause for Edmonton Oilers on one condition
The Edmonton Oilers could make a trade this season to improve their goaltending, and one option is veteran goaltender John Gibson. The Anaheim Ducks goalie would be willing to join the Oilers, on the condition that it isn't a tandem.
Earlier this week, GM Stan Bowman said a goalie upgrade isn't needed this year. Gibson's condition would require the Oilers trade Stuart Skinner in a blockbuster deal, making it very unlikely.
John Gibson reportedly unwilling to be tandem goalie in potential trade to Edmonton
On today's edition of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that John Gibson would waive his no-trade clause for the Oilers, but that he wouldn't want to be a tandem goalie - he wants to be the full starter.
- Elliotte Friedman
It's surprising to hear that Gibson is unwilling to play for a championship team if he's not the full starter, and if true, it would put a wrench in the Oilers potential plans to deal for him.
Unfortunately, John Gibson is the best goalie available for trade this season. Gibson's save percentage is at an elite .915 this season, and he currently ranks 7th in the NHL in Goals Saved Above Expected. At 31 years old and a veteran of 500 games, he's experienced and still has good hockey left.
This may force the Oilers into a very difficult decision with Stuart Skinner. In the next two seasons, Skinner will become a UFA and demand at least double of his current $2.6M contract. Perhaps the Oilers move on from him now, especially if Anaheim retains salary on Gibson.
Oilers may still look for goaltending, but not likely to trade Stuart Skinner
Friedman continued to say that the Oilers trading for John Gibson may not be likely anymore because of the need to trade Skinner, but hinted that there could still be some action.
- Elliotte Friedman
Friedman's comments seem to hint that Gibson could potentially change his mind on the matter, or also that the Oilers could be pursuing other goaltenders in trade. If they've had conversations with Gibson, they've assessed possible goalie trades.
Goaltending is statistically the Oilers weakest point on the roster. Edmonton's offence and defence have performed again to a top 5 level in the NHL, now they need a goalie upgrade to truly be a complete team heading into the playoffs.
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