Babcock expects Andersen to start vs. Predators

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock expects goaltender Frederik Andersen to be between the pipes Wednesday when the club hosts the Nashville Predators, according to TSN's Kristen Shilton.

Andersen was forced to leave Monday's game against the Anaheim Ducks after being hit in the head by the skate of Corey Perry. Curtis McElhinney entered in relief and turned away 15 of 16 shots in the Maple Leafs' 7-4 victory.

While Babcock remains optimistic, he noted that he had not discussed Andersen's status with the team's medical staff.

Frederik Andersen on whether he'll play for #Leafs tomorrow vs. Nashville: "We'll see."

- Kristen Shilton (@kristen_shilton) February 6, 2018

Andersen has arguably been the club's most valuable player this season. He's registered a .921 save percentage, a 2.66 goals-against average, and four shutouts, all while facing more shots than any other netminder.

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