re: PC Discussion - Gaming, Performance and Enthusiasts

So for Christmas I was given $315 (weird total, I know) worth of Amazon gift cards. Wasn't really expecting that. Figure I'll upgrade my graphics card since it's long overdue. I'd like to step up to 1440 if possible. I was looking at a 970, but might go 980 if a compelling argument is made. What's the realistic difference in performance? Or perhaps I should wait a few months until some new things emerge on the market? What says the board? Also looking to go green this time, last few cards were AMD and I feel like it's time for a change.