If you are not familiar with the Bill Masterson Trophy, it is awarded to the NHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey. Each NHL team nominates a player and the finalists are announced. Carolina's Frederik Andersen was named one of the three finalists for the 2024 trophy.
Andersen has been a strong presence in the crease for the Hurricanes in recent history but has had to overcome many injuries to stay in said crease. After signing a new contract in Carolina this summer for two more years, the club was looking to make a run for the Stanley Cup. The injury bug returned in a big way for the 34-year-old.
In November, Andersen left the team due to a serious blood clotting issue. At the time, it was unclear if Andersen would be able to make a return this season, not to mention his career. The Canes seemed to be deep in goaltending and added to that with the pickup of Spencer Martin off waivers.
The 2012 draft choice of the Anaheim Ducks quietly worked hard behind the scenes and made progress during the winter months. In March, Andersen was activated and played in his first game back on March 10th. It was obvious that this was a work in progress, but Andersen picked up a victory against Montreal.
To the surprise of everyone, he went on to finish the season with 9 wins and one defeat. This was a miraculous comeback for the former Toronto Maple Leaf and had him finish with an unbelievable 1.84 GAA and .932 save percentage. 13 wins in 16 games played was just as impressive.
It would be a wonderful topping to a great season for Andersen to win the trophy, but he has his focus on the New York Rangers for now.