Mitch Gibson Inks Two‑Year Deal With Capitals

Photo credits: Alan Dobbins

Written By Gina Anton

In a strategic boost to their organizational depth, the Washington Capitals have signed goaltender Mitch Gibson to a two‑year, two‑way contract, the team announced Tuesday. The move highlights the club’s belief in Gibson’s potential and his strong recent play in the minors as the Capitals manage goaltending resources during the NHL push toward the playoffs.

At 26, Gibson’s new deal marks his first multi‑season commitment with Washington after years of proving himself within the Capitals’ extended pipeline: AHL team the Hershey Bears and the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays.

Originally selected by Washington in the fourth round (124th overall) of the 2018 NHL Draft, Gibson has steadily built a reputation as a reliable and technically sound netminder. In 12 appearances this season with Hershey, he has posted a 6‑4‑2 record with a .918 save percentage and a 2.48 goals‑against average, statistics that place him among the AHL’s more consistent goaltenders.

With the Stingrays, he has compiled an 8‑5‑0 mark with a .917 save percentage and 2.32 GAA, further validating his ability to handle significant workloads between the pipes.

What The Contract Means

The structure of Gibson’s deal is two years, two ways, which gives Washington flexibility. The club plans to place him on waivers later Tuesday with plans to loan him back to Hershey. The contract ensures Gibson remains firmly within the Capitals’ system while giving the organization roster control and salary cap flexibility.

A two‑way contract also means Gibson will have different salary rates at the NHL and AHL levels, making it easier for Washington to shuttle him between leagues as needed. That is an important factor for a team managing injuries or adjusting goaltending roles over a long season.

After finishing his collegiate career at Harvard University, where he posted strong numbers over three seasons, Gibson spent time honing his game in the minors and earning the opportunity to prove himself against a variety of competition.

For the Capitals, this signing reflects a broader emphasis on building organizational stability and preparing for any scenario an unpredictable NHL season might bring.