Detroit Red Wings issue special announcement on goaltender Cam Talbot

Indeed, the organization turned to social media this morning to celebrate his 38th birthday:

But if you ask Talbot himself, he might tell you his early birthday gift came weeks ago.

With 21-year-old Sebastian Cossa's future still something of a wild card, Yzerman simply couldn't afford to roll the dice on Talbot carrying the entire team again next season. That's exactly why he went out and got Gibson from Anaheim, hoping the 31-year-old could be the key to bringing the team back to the playoffs for the first time since 2014.

Talbot, who signed a two-year deal worth $5 million AAV in 2024, saw plenty of action last season. The big 6'4», 200-pound Ontario native took part in 47 games, tallying 21 wins, two shutouts, a 2.93 goals-against average, and a .901 save percentage. Not too shabby for someone pushing 40, but you could also see the workload catching up to him down the stretch.

Meanwhile, the newly acquired Gibson stands at 6'2», 214 pounds and is coming off a season where he went 11-16-2 with a 2.77 GAA and .912 save percentage in 29 games with the Ducks.

Over his 506-game career, he's recorded a 2.89 GAA and .910 save percentage with 24 shutouts and 204 career wins. On paper, he's the undisputed new No. 1 in Detroit. Talbot's likely to slide into a supporting role, which might be the perfect scenario given his age and mileage.

Still, on his 38th birthday, Talbot can celebrate more than just another year; he's also getting a little help in the crease. And who knows, maybe this tandem finally pushes the Wings over the hump. For now, all eyes are on Talbot and Gibson to see if they can end Detroit's long playoff drought.