Carolina Netminder Andersen Sidelined With Another Injury, Pressuring 'Canes To Add New Goalie

Regardless of who you cheer for in the hockey world, you have to feel for veteran NHLer Frederik Andersen. The 35-year-old goaltender suffered another major injury, and his Carolina Hurricanes announced he was going to undergo knee surgery that would keep him out of the lineup for roughly eight weeks.

Losing Andersen – who has played only four games this season – is a major blow for the Hurricanes, as Andersen posted a .941 save percentage and 1.48 goals-against average in that limited action. In Andersen's place, the ‘Canes have turned to backup Pyotr Kochetkov, and he has played well, posting a 10-2-0 record, a .907 SP and a 2.30 G.A.A. in 12 appearances. But the question arises. Should Carolina acquire another netminder to support Kochetkov until Andersen returns or even after he returns?

Certainly, you can’t fault Andersen for the afflictions he’s had in recent years. His body is limiting him in what he can do, and who knows – he may be injured again, and he may be injured at a key point in the regular or post-season. As a result, goaltending insurance could be the difference between the Hurricanes going on a deep playoff run or a quick first-round elimination.

Current ‘Canes backup Spencer Martin shut out Ottawa last Saturday, but his other three games this year have been sub-par, with him posting a SP of .821 or worse. Can Carolina GM Eric Tulsky rely on Martin to provide adequate support? Landing another goalie via trade may be tough for a little while until there’s more separation in the standings and non-playoff teams are willing to move a goalie.

In any case, goaltending will be a focal point for the Hurricanes throughout the season. When Andersen returns to action, he’s likely to get another long look in net, but Kochetkov is establishing himself as Carolina’s No. 1 option in net, and Andersen may have to settle for being the backup until he can demonstrate he can stay healthy.

It’s unfortunate that Andersen’s career has led him to this point, but hockey is a cold-blooded business, and Tulsky and coach Rod Brind’Amour may have no choice but to place Andersen behind Kochetkov on the depth chart. And considering this is the final year of Andersen’s contract, he may be playing for another team next season.

Thus, the pressure on Andersen will be considerable the rest of the way this season. He can only do what his body allows, and a little bit of luck health-wise will go a long way for him. But if his body doesn’t respond positively, the Hurricanes are going to go with the best option in net, and the best option may not be him. It’s a shame, but it’s the reality, and Andersen has to either produce or find himself looking for a new employer next year – and the Hurricanes may wind up looking for a new backup or starter.

Get the latest news and trending stories right to your inbox by subscribing to The Hockey News newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or by visiting our forum.