Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports
The Anaheim Ducks’ decision to start Frederik Andersen tonight makes sense.
He has played better than Jonas Hiller this season and has stolen games in which he has played.
Hiller, meanwhile, has been so-so after the Olympics, going 4-4-3, and had save percentages of .889, .765 and .826 in his last three games. He has not played since April 8.
He also was upset by the Detroit Red Wings last season, giving up seven goals over his last two games as the Ducks blew a 3-2 lead.
Hiller, 32, will be an unrestricted free agent this summer and although Andersen is a rookie, it makes sense to see how he handles the playoff pressure. If he falters tonight, you could always throw Hiller back in for Game 2. If he does well and starts a run, then you know whether to make Hiller an offer.
Not too long ago, we were talking about Hiller and Viktor Fasth as the Ducks’ tandem going forward. But Andersen made Fasth expendable, leading to his trade to the Edmonton Oilers.
And John Gibson, the Ducks’ goalie of the future, proved that he was capable of getting a longer look next season during his three-game stint at the end of the regular season. It spoke volumes that Hiller didn’t start when Andersen was hurt.
The Ducks have two scoring stars in Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry, plenty of secondary scoring and solid defense. The elements for a long run is there if they get solid goaltending. It’s helpful to have three goalies from which to choose.
Also tonight
The Columbus Blue Jackets are seeking the franchise’s playoff win and also their first win of the season against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Blue Jackets were swept in their previous playoff appearance in 2009. They’re 0-5 vs. the Penguins. … The Tampa Bay Lightning will use Anders Lindback in net tonight because Ben Bishop remains hurt.
Your games tonight
Montreal at Tampa Bay, 7, CNBC
Columbus at Pittsburgh, 7:30, NBC Sports Network
Dallas at Anaheim, 10, NBC Sports Network
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