The Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan has filed an article which discusses goaltender John Gibson’s conference call today:
“Very exciting,” Gibson said during a Zoom call Tuesday with Detroit media. “Being in one place for a long time, there’s a lot of close friendships inside and outside the organization, but we’re really excited for the next chapter. I still feel like I have a lot left to prove and I’m excited to get the season going and playing, and hopefully we can get Detroit in the playoffs.”
Gibson was acquired for goaltender Petr Mrazek and two future draft picks.
Gibson spoke with general manager Steve Yzerman on Tuesday morning after playing phone tag the last several days. He also talked with captain Dylan Larkin and goaltender Cam Talbot, among others.
Having been part of the USA National Team Development Program, based in Plymouth Township, early in his career gave Gibson a good handle on the Metro Detroit area. He’s been coach by Wings coach Todd McLellan during the World Cup of Hockey, and assistant coach Trent Yawney was an assistant in Anaheim for years with Gibson was there, so there’s familiarity.
After being displaced as the Ducks’ starter in recent years, Gibson, 31, is looking forward to showing he is still a quality NHL goaltender.
“It’s a new chapter, a fresh start,” Gibson said. “I’m excited to prove myself. It’s an exciting opportunity, a team and organization that really wants to get back to playoff hockey. They’ve been so close for a couple years, and for me coming in and being part of it, it’s a historic franchise. It’s a privilege and honor to be part of it all.”
