The Free Press’s Helene St. James combined an interview with new Red Wings goaltender John Gibson and an early take on the Wings’ free agency struggles (thus far):
Gibson was in Mexico when he found out he was leaving the only NHL team he’s known.
“I was in Cabo for a charity event,” he said. “I found out right before I was getting ready to head out on a boat. It was interesting timing. I more felt bad that I missed a lot of phone calls and things like that. I’m trying to catch up, introduce myself, get to meet everyone over the phone. It’s very exciting. It’s tough being in one place so long, you have to say goodbye to a lot of close friendships within the organization. But me and my family are really excited for the next chapter. I still feel like I have a lot left to prove and excited to get the season going and play. Hopefully we can get Detroit into the playoffs.”
As it stands, the Wings are returning nearly the same team that fell short last season, with a few changes. The additions are Gibson and van Riemsdyk. Mrazek and Vladimir Tarasenko both have been traded, and Alex Lyon and Jeff Petry signed elsewhere.
Nate Danielson, the team’s first-round pick (at No. 9) from 2023 may challenge for a spot come camp, but he’s not the power winger the Wings targeted. There are high expectations on Axel Sandin Pellikka, but the defenseman is only just starting his North American career. It’s not a particularly encouraging situation on July 1, but at least Gibson is on board.
“I’m super excited,” he said. “It’s a new chapter, fresh start. I’m excited to prove myself. You have a team and an organization that really wants to get back to playoff hockey. They’ve been so close for a couple years. I’m really privileged and honored to become a part of it all.”
Continued (paywall)
