Craig Anderson posts 33-save shutout in first start since December

Craig Anderson made his return to the Ottawa Senators after a two-month leave of absence, and recorded a 33-save shutout in an inspired performance.

Craig Anderson has been through a lot this season. The Ottawa Senators goalie found out back in November that his wife Nicholle was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which is a form of cancer. There were times when he wanted to be there for his wife, but ended up playing at her behest.

However, after Anderson’s third leave of absence this season, he finally came back to make his first start in over two months. In his last start, he allowed seven goals against the Pittsburgh Penguins. While Mike Condon has played well in his absence, it was hard to imagine the Senators not having have Anderson in the back of their minds. Well, Anderson rewarded his team’s patience by recording a 33-save shutout over the New York Islanders.

Stopped all 33 in his return.

Andy’s back. ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/UjRe6c91yx

— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) February 11, 2017

This game couldn’t have come at a better time for Anderson. While he has been putting up great numbers this season — he has a .924 save percentage, while his record improves to 13-6-1 — he suffered a large drop-off in his last two starts. Part of that was likely due to his wife, which is why he felt like he deserved some time off. As this performance indicates, that time off served him well.

The fact that Anderson has played so well this season is likely what’s made this situation so difficult. The Senators are in the midst of a playoff push, and they could’ve benefited from this type of goaltending. However, the Senators know that this situation is out of his control, and will continue to support him no matter what.

It’s not the only inspired performance Anderson has had, as he also recorded a shutout in the first game since his wife’s diagnosis was made public. Even if you despise the Ottawa Senators, you have to love Craig Anderson’s story, and what he’s done this season. Hopefully, the team can rally around him and make the playoffs.