Gibson returns to Anaheim with Red Wings on Friday night, but the emotional homecoming ended in disappointment as the Anaheim Ducks defeated Detroit 5-2 at Honda Center. The 32-year-old goaltender faced his former team for the first time after spending 12 seasons in orange and black, receiving a standing ovation and video tribute from the faithful Anaheim crowd.
Ducks Dominate Gibson’s Return
The Gibson homecoming game turned into a nightmare for the visiting Red Wings, who saw their three-game winning streak snapped. Troy Terry goals proved decisive, as the Ducks captain scored twice and added an assist in a dominant performance. The Anaheim Honda Center crowd erupted when Terry fired home an empty-netter to seal the victory, rubbing salt in the wounds of Gibson’s return.
Leo Carlsson assists and goal highlighted the young center’s breakout performance with four points on the night. The 19-year-old Swedish sensation tallied one goal and three assists, according to official NHL statistics, orchestrating the Ducks’ offensive explosion. Mason McTavish and Chris Kreider also found the back of the net, with Kreider’s goal just 55 seconds into the third period giving Anaheim a commanding 4-2 lead.
Gibson’s Legacy in Orange and Black
The John Gibson Ducks connection runs deep through franchise history. Gibson played 506 games for Anaheim—more than any goaltender in team history. He finished with 204 wins, ranking second all-time behind Jean-Sebastien Giguere by just two victories. His departure via the Gibson trade Detroit on June 28th sent shockwaves through Southern California, as the franchise dealt their longtime netminder for backup goalie Petr Mrázek along with second and fourth-round draft picks.
Despite the loss, Gibson’s Gibson Red Wings debut against his former club showcased his trademark competitiveness. The veteran netminder made 27 saves in the losing effort, matching the save total of his replacement, Lukas Dostal Ducks goalie, who stopped 27 shots at the other end.
Red Wings Playoff Hopes Take Hit
The Ducks vs Red Wings score dropped Detroit to 8-4-0 on the season, though they remain tied with Montreal atop the Red Wings Atlantic Division standings. Alex DeBrincat extended his scoring streak to four consecutive games with a goal and assist, while Lucas Raymond also contributed a goal and helper in the defeat.
Detroit’s special teams struggled mightily, converting just one of seven power-play opportunities. The Red Wings fell to 0-2 in back-to-back games this season, showing fatigue from their Southern California road trip. Meanwhile, Anaheim improved to 6-3-1 with their fourth victory in five games, signaling a potential playoff push in the Pacific Division.
Looking Ahead
Gibson’s emotional return may have ended in defeat, but the veteran goaltender demonstrated why Detroit acquired him as their franchise cornerstone. The Red Wings will look to bounce back as they continue their road trip, while the Ducks ride momentum from their impressive performance. For more sports news and updates, stay tuned to the latest NHL developments.
The Gibson chapter in Anaheim officially closed with a bittersweet homecoming, leaving fans with memories of a legendary career and hope that the young Ducks core can build on this statement victory.
