Senators send Lawson to AHL, starting goalie Anderson expected to return

OTTAWA - The Ottawa Senators have sent goaltender Nathan Lawson to their American Hockey League affiliate, meaning starting goalie Craig Anderson is likely ready to return to the NHL club.

Anderson missed the Senators' last two games with a stiff neck after colliding with Dallas rookie Valeri Nichushkin in a game on Sunday.

Lawson was brought up from the Binghamton Senators to back up Robin Lehner for the last two games. Lehner played well in 4-1 wins over Columbus and Montreal.

Anderson has a 4-4-2 record with the Senators this season with one shutout. He has a 3.14 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage.

Lawson is currently tied for fifth among AHL goaltenders with five wins this season. He has posted a 2.22 GAA and a .931 save percentage through seven appearances with Binghamton.