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Ottawa Senators: Craig Anderson For The Bill Masterton

By Conor Peniston-Bird

Mar 21, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Ottawa Senators goalie Craig Anderson (41) handles the puck during the third period against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 21, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Ottawa Senators goalie Craig Anderson (41) handles the puck during the third period against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Ottawa Senators goaltender has been selected by Ottawa’s chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association for the award that demonstrates dedication to Ice Hockey alongside perseverance and sportsmanship.

Perseverance is the most important word originating from the award criteria. Ottawa Senators goaltender Craig Anderson has shown perseverance and the utmost resilience this season. Let me clarify that the awarding of this award to Anderson would not be for pity, that is undoubtedly clear.

Craig Anderson has earned the right to be nominated for this award. It is his success on the ice through everything that has happened with Nicholle which makes him worthy.

Comeback Heroics

It was on October 30th after leaving the team for a short stint that Anderson much his return. Goalies must dream of the way they’d love to put their stamp back on a team. Anderson could not of envisaged much better than this.

Shutting out the offensive minded Edmonton Oilers 2-0 making a whopping 37 saves in an emotionally charged night for the Anderson family.

What made it ever so special was the response from the home fans. The Edmonton Oilers fans took to their feet and saluted the Ottawa Senators goaltender as he bent over with emotion. You could see the drive in his eyes through the cage, this wasn’t just a hockey game for him. It was a statement that Nicholle and himself could get through this trying time.

Rallying Member Of The Group

Be under no illusion, Craig Anderson is fundamental to that Ottawa Senators locker room. A key and prominent figure, he is the guy that the players put their bodies on the line to protect. His stats have been impressive with a .927 save percentage and four shutouts he has brought his game every single night. See how much he means to this organisation and the players.

You can usually tell when players are reading from their game day script but those four short interviews signified emotion. For their love of Craig Anderson and his family, after all a hockey team is an extension of your family no matter what the level.

Give Anderson The Trophy

It’s as simple as that, he deserves it. For one man to go through so much, to have his brain rattling with those thoughts and still play out of his skates in one of sports most demanding positions. Is pure testament to Craig Anderson.

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