Andersen traveling with Leafs to Nashville, Sparks sent back to AHL

Frederik Andersen appears set to suit up for Thursday's big game against the Predators.

The Toronto Maple Leafs goalie took the optional skate Wednesday, the morning after he was forced to sit out a win over the Panthers with an upper-body injury.

Andersen said he felt good after taking the ice, and is traveling with the team to Nashville while fill-in Garret Sparks has been sent back to the AHL.

According to TSN's Mark Masters, Andersen said it will be determined on the plane whether he'll play against the Predators, although he added he felt optimistic and ready to go.

Barring a setback and emergency recall, all indications are that Andersen should at least be able to serve as backup to Curtis McElhinney.