Toronto Maple Leafs Rumors: Anaheim Goalie John Gibson
The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest in John Gibson in the past, and sounds like they may have interest again.
It is believed that Toronto general manager Kyle Dubas will attempt to re-sign Jack Campbell. If Dubas and Campbell’s agent can’t agree on a new deal, a trade with the Anaheim Ducks is a possibility.
One of the reasons that this rumor has resurfaced is because of comments by hockey insider Elliotte Friedman. He stated on NHL Network that “Toronto is going to make a bold move this off-season. If they don’t bring back Campbell, they’ll look for an upgrade in goal. I do think Gibson is that. Anaheim’s timeline might not fit Gibson”.
Jack Campbell has earned the number one goaltender job in Toronto with his play over the past two seasons. However, if he is to remain in Toronto, he will not be getting a massive deal. According to capfriendly.com, the Leafs currently have just over $7 million in salary cap space. Obviously they will make moves to create as much as they need, but this team hasn’t shown any willingness to spend big on goalies.
Can the Toronto Maple Leafs Afford John Gibson?
Now that the rumor is floating around again, the main question is, which goaltender is the best option for Toronto? Gibson is 28 and signed for five more seasons at $6.4 Million. Campbell is 30 and could be seeking a long-term deal for $5 million or more.
If Toronto does decide to move on from Campbell and trade for Gibson, what will Dubas have to give up in return? One would have to assume that a first-round pick or top prospect will need to be part of any deal. A player such as Justin Holl ($2 million) or Alex Kerfoot ($3.5 million) will need to be in the trade (or moved elsewhere at the same time) for Gibson’s cap hit to fit.
It’s going to be a busy off-season for the Toronto Maple Leafs. They will be trying to build off a productive 2021-22 season but finding a solution to their playoff failures. Toronto GM Kyle Dubas needs to figure out his goaltending situation sooner rather than later. Will he bring back Campbell or trade for a goaltender such as Gibson?
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I believe Toronto will try to bring Campbell back, but I don’t think they’re willing to spend higher than $4 million on him. I think Gibson would benefit from having a better defensive core in front of him than he does right now in Anaheim. Depending on the Duck’s asking price for Gibson, Toronto would have to hope the rewards outweigh the cost.