There's little debate as to the future in net for the Anaheim Ducks.
John Gibson's boundless growth potential and laughably inexpensive contract are factors that weigh far too heavy to even consider slotting any other netminder in at No. 1 for next season and beyond.
And that includes the man whose rescued their season over the course of the last three nights.
Frederik Andersen made 57 saves on 58 shots faced in back-to-back starts at the inhospitable Bridgestone Arena, erasing the 2-0 disadvantage the Ducks found themselves treading in during their first-round series with the Nashville Predators behind Gibson.
It was a necessary decision to turn to Andersen, if only to spark a team on the verge of wasting the incomparable half-season run. But it shouldn't give the Ducks pause this summer - only reason to demand more in exchange for the services of the late-blooming, twice-drafted Dane.
Together, Andersen and Gibson have formed one of, if not the best, duo in the NHL. Look no further than their league-low 188 total goals against this season. But their splitting duties is coming to an end.
Andersen's not just in line for starter's money when his entry-level contract expires at the end of this run, he stands to be one of the most sought-after trade targets on the market, his portfolio including 77 wins in 114 total starts and a career .918 save percentage.
As a restricted free agent, the Ducks will have every opportunity to retain Andersen. But his asset, built up with every win turned out this spring, has become too great for a team with a self-imposed cap and aging core to possibly ignore - especially with a goalie of Gibson's ilk in the picture.
It's in Anaheim's best interest to ride Andersen as deep into these playoffs as possible. For now, and for the future of a franchise in capable hands.
