‘It’s been scary times’: Hurricanes’ Frederik Andersen opens up about blood clot scare

It has been a long three months for Frederik Andersen.

In early November, after playing just six games, the Carolina Hurricanes netminder was diagnosed with a blood-clotting issue, and has been out of the lineup ever since.

On Wednesday, Andersen spoke to the media for the first time since he was diagnosed with the condition.

“I’ve got to start by saying I appreciate the patience through this last little time,” Andersen said. “It’s been scary times but thankfully, I’ve gotten a lot of help through the team and doctors around me, and my family. My teammates have been really supportive and I really appreciate the help.”

While Andersen’s work load has recently picked up, there is no timetable for his return.

“I’m just focusing on taking things day by day to see how I’m progressing. I’m going to lean on the great team of doctors that we have around here.”

The 34-year-old finally started skate a few weeks ago, joining the team’s practice for the first time last Thursday. He admitted how elated he was to be back on the ice and be active with the team.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back with teammates and do what I love, be part of that locker room again. Out there for practice, it’s been really fun.”

Andersen was cleared to skate back in December, but another setback delayed his rehab. Despite having suffered various injuries in the past, Andersen said the process of dealing with blood clots was a different ballgame.

“Obviously it’s something new, I haven’t dealt with this before. Just trying to get educated about it as much as I can to really understand what situation I’m in, and lean on the great team of doctors that I have seen, taking their advice and recommendations.”

In six games, Andersen was 4-1-1 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .894 save percentage. In 485 career games, the former Toronto Maple Leaf has a record of 286-126-52 with a 2.59 GAA, .915 SV% and 24 shutouts.

In Andersen’s absence, the young Pyotr Kochetkov has taken over the reigns as the No. 1 goaltender. Along with Antti Raanta, the Canes have shown they can win no matter who is in goal.

The Hurricanes (33-17-5) are currently second in the Metropolitan Division, six points back of the first-place New York Rangers.