Andersen out to solidify Toronto crease that’s shuffled through hopeful No. 1’s
TORONTO — There were three sticks in the hand of Maple Leafs assistant equipment manager Bobby Hastings, and Frederik Andersen had to choose which two would travel with him to Ottawa. The 27-year-old did a quick examination, confidently made his choices and then moved onto other matters.
If Toronto’s new No. 1 goaltender was on edge ahead of his debut as a Leaf, he didn’t show it.
“No, I try not to go too much up and down,” said Andersen, a six foot four, 230-pound goaltender with bright red hair. “I try to just stay even-keel and focus on what I can control and that’s working hard on the ice and being prepared. That’s what I aim to do every day. I know once I do those things and focus the right way I’ll be fine in games.”
Andersen was more concerned with getting back into the rhythm of NHL hockey, eager to find his game again after a delayed start to training camp. He was also wary about trying to do too much in Wednesday’s season opener against the Ottawa Senators and given the expectations of him, that’s understandable.