Senators goaltender Craig Anderson will make return against Islanders

After missing over two months while taking care of his wife, Craig Anderson will return to start for the Ottawa Senators against the New York Islanders. 

One of the most uplifting stories of the 2016-17 NHL season has been the Ottawa Senators. They remain in a playoff spot thanks to some incredible goaltending. Ottawa has rallied around goalie Craig Anderson, who’s another feel good story. After his wife got diagnosed with cancer, he put his family above his team by leaving to take care of her. Anderson will return to the Senators on Saturday as they take on the Islanders.

Anderson hasn’t started for Ottawa since Dec. 5. While he hasn’t started in over two months, he’s been working out and getting back in shape. It’s rare in today’s society to see an athlete prioritize his family over his team, especially during the regular season. However, Anderson’s a guy who has his priorities straight.

Mike Condon will be the backup goalie moving forward. He performed admirably despite tough circumstances. After falling short last season with the Montreal Canadiens, they put him on waivers in September. The Pittsburgh Penguins claimed him, but he only got one appearance with them before being traded to the Senators.

Condon got 25 starts after Anderson’s departure, filling in well with a 90.53 percent save percentage, including an even strength save percentage of 91.41 percent. However, getting Anderson back should be a huge help for Ottawa. He has a 93.48 percent save percentage at even strength and a 92.36 percent save percentage overall.

Next: 30 best NHL goaltenders of all time

The Senators are looking to get a huge win over the Islanders. They will play them starting at 1:00 p.m. ET. With the game being held in Ottawa, expect a standing ovation for Anderson. The team has rallied around him and so has the fanbase. Anderson has proven his character and become a very fun player to root for because of how he has handled a very tough situation.