Kariya Clearly Looking Forward to Return

The headaches and dizziness stemming from a three-month battle against post-concussion syndrome are now distant memories for Mighty Duck captain Paul Kariya. He said Tuesday his off-season workouts are going well and he is looking forward to his fifth NHL season.

“Before, I couldn’t remember the last time I felt good,” Kariya said. “Now, I can’t remember the last time I felt bad.”

Kariya, who was injured when he was cross-checked in the jaw by Chicago defenseman Gary Suter on Feb. 1, credited twice weekly acupuncture treatments for his recovery. Philadelphia Flyer center Eric Lindros, who also had a concussion last season, suggested Kariya try acupuncture. Kariya missed the season’s final 28 games after suffering his second concussion in as many seasons.

Other than wearing a mouth guard for the first time, Kariya said he has no plans to wear additional protective headgear.

“You don’t want something on your head that says, ‘I’m a target,’ ” Kariya said. “Obviously, I’ve got to protect myself a little better. I don’t think winning the Lady Byng [trophy for gentlemanly conduct] is going to help me anymore. Maybe I’ve got to get my stick up a little bit and rack up some more penalty minutes.”

He was pleased to learn General Manager Jack Ferreira had acquired enforcer Jim McKenzie from the Phoenix Coyotes last week. Kariya has been a vocal supporter of more toughness in the lineup to deter opponents from taking pot shots at him and right wing Teemu Selanne.

“I think we needed that,” Kariya said. “I spoke to Mark Janssens [a former Duck who now plays for Phoenix] and he says [McKenzie] is really tough and really knows his role.”

Kariya indicated he harbors no ill will toward Suter or former Chicago coach Craig Hartsburg, who is expected to be interviewed soon by Ferreira for the Ducks’ coaching vacancy.

Suter will be an unrestricted free agent July 1, and there has been talk that the Ducks would like to sign him to beef up their youthful defensive corps.

“If Gary Suter came to our team, I wouldn’t have a problem with him personally,” Kariya said. “You leave all that stuff out on the ice.”

Of Hartsburg, who initially questioned the severity of the injury, Kariya added: “Every coach has to protect his players. If you hold a vendetta against every guy who says something about you, you won’t be able to function.”

Kariya also said he expects to feel nervous when he returns to the ice for the first time since the injury.

“Basically, I’ve got to shut it out,” he said. “The longer I play without thinking about it, the better it’s going to be for me. After the first 10 games, hopefully, I’ll put it out of my mind.”