Kariya’s Family Speaks Out

Paul Kariya’s family normally avoids media attention, but his sister, Michiko, spoke out for the first time Thursday about his condition and the illegal hit that caused it.

“I talk to my parents about it and we’re all terribly concerned,” Michiko Kariya told a Vancouver newspaper. “Paul has had two concussions that were both the result of a cheap shot, if you want to use that term. Yes, there’s some anger over that.”

Kariya was injured by Gary Suter’s cross-check to the jaw in a Feb. 1 game against the Chicago Blackhawks. He will miss the final 28 games because of post-concussion syndrome.

Michiko Kariya, whose family lives in North Vancouver, speaks to her brother at least once a week and can tell he hasn’t been himself.

“When I talk to him, I can hear the symptoms,” she said. “Sometimes he laughs and jokes around like usual. Sometimes he’s abrupt and quiet and not interested in talking.”

Of his slow recovery, she added, “There’s no question, if any sport is going to impact your long-term health, it’s not worth it. No matter how much money comes with a professional sports career, it isn’t worth a lifetime of headaches.”

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Edmonton defenseman Bobby Dollas, an original Duck, softened his stance about his former team after the Oilers clinched a playoff berth Wednesday. He had harsh words for the Ducks and Page before the game.

“It’s a little more special to get a goal against your former team, but I don’t hold any hard feelings,” said Dollas, whose empty-net goal sealed the victory.

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How rare was the Oilers’ victory Wednesday over the Ducks?

It was only their second victory over the Ducks in 12 games, dating to April 3, 1996. It also was their first victory over the Ducks at the Edmonton Coliseum since Feb. 14, 1996, ending a four-game losing streak.

The Ducks lead the all-time series, 16-9-1.