New Leafs goalie Andersen back on ice
Maple Leafs goalie Frederik Andersen was almost lost in the media glare that trailed Auston Matthews at the club’s training camp workout Wednesday.
Andersen and Matthews were both making their first appearances at camp.
“It was the first time with all the guys, it felt good to be back,” said Andersen, who suffered an upper body injury Sept. 2 during an Olympic qualifying game between Denmark and Slovakia, forcing him to miss the World Cup of Hockey.
Andersen, in returning to the ice Wednesday for the first time since his injury, could not offer a timeline for a return to game action.
“It’s progressing pretty good … I’m still day to day, but it’s been going pretty good,” he said.
Andersen won’t likely see any preseason action in a pair of games against the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday or Friday. The Leafs, though, could get Andersen into a game as early as Sunday’s tilt against Montreal, which would be a good test for the former Anaheim Ducks goalie. He was obtained via off-season trade and signed to a five year, $25-million (U.S.) deal to be the club’s No.1 goalie.
Andersen faced the same media throng of about 25 cameras and reporters who were on hand to record Matthews’ first official workout.
The media attention is a contrast to Andersen’s experiences in Anaheim.
“A little more (media) than there (Anaheim),” Andersen said. “I’m sure I will get used to it.” Like Matthews, Andersen is excited about joining an organization primed for a turnaround, a team in the midst of a culture change.
Both 19-year-old Matthews, the No. 1 pick in June’s draft, and the 26year-old goalie are key pieces on a revamped roster.
“I’m really excited about this year,” Andersen said. “I’m looking forward to helping this team. I worked hard in the summer to prepare for this goal.”