Leafs' Andersen expected to start Wednesday after 23-game absence

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said he plans to start Frederik Andersen between the pipes Wednesday against the Ottawa Senators, according to TSN's Mark Masters.

Andersen hasn't played since March 19 due to a knee injury. He missed 23 games during that stretch.

The 31-year-old started two games with the AHL's Toronto Marlies last week on a conditioning stint, stopping 46 of 52 shots.

The 2020-21 campaign has been easily Andersen's worst in the NHL. The pending unrestricted free agent has posted an .897 save percentage and a 2.91 goals-against average in 23 appearances.

Andersen missed nearly two weeks in late February with a lower-body injury. He returned to the crease and played through the ailment for seven games, posting an .876 save percentage before being shut down.

Jack Campbell has been excellent in Andersen's absence, going 17-2-2 on the season with a .923 save percentage and a 2.11 goals-against average.

Toronto has two regular-season games left before the playoffs begin.