Detroit Red Wings are putting John Gibson to a major test following a last-minute announcement

The Red Wings' preseason officially opens tonight in Detroit, and they won't get an easy start.

A tough challenge awaits the team as the Chicago Blackhawks will be in town with most of their firepower, with Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Kevin Korchinski, Sam Rinzel, Oliver Moore, Ethan Del Mastro, and several others who are already pushing for full-time NHL spots:

During the morning skate, it was confirmed that John Gibson will be in action for the first time with his new team:

Gibson, who was acquired by the Red Wings in a blockbuster trade in the summer, is immediately being thrown into the fire against the Blackhawks.

Detroit, meanwhile, hinted at its combinations earlier today,
with a few top players expected to sit:

So Gibson won't necessarily get Detroit's full lineup in front of him, making the challenge even bigger. For a goalie trying to establish himself as the new number one, there may be no better early statement than shutting down Chicago.