The Anaheim Ducks have assigned goalie John Gibson to AHL Norfolk.
Temporarily.
The plan, according to the club, is for Gibson to play two games for the Admirals this weekend (they play Friday and Saturday versus Manchester) and then return to Anaheim.
The Ducks have home games Friday versus Minnesota and Sunday versus St. Louis.
Goalie Jason LaBarbera has been called up to replace Gibson, who struggled Thursday in Pittsburgh. The highly touted 21-year-old surrendered six goals on 39 Pittsburgh shots, opening the door for Frederik Andersen to start (and win) the Ducks’ last three games.
Obviously, by sending him to the AHL, the club is just trying to get Gibson some work. Perhaps a shot of confidence will come of it as well.
Update: Sounds like Gibson might’ve requested the temporary assignment:
Ducks G John Gibson wanted to play some games and was assigned to AHL Norfolk. LaBarbera was called up.
— Helene Elliott (@helenenothelen) October 15, 2014