Kariya’s Return Still Up in Air

The Ducks said Thursday they are awaiting the results of Paul Kariya’s examination by Dr. James Kelly, a Chicago neurologist regarded as a leader in the research and treatment of concussions.

Kariya has been sidelined by post-concussion syndrome since he was cross-checked in the jaw Feb. 1 by Chicago defenseman Gary Suter. Kariya’s return by the end of the regular season is still considered a longshot.

“Paul has shown marked improvement in the last two weeks,” team spokesman Rob Scichili said. “The doctors are encouraged by his progress, but the time of his return to hockey is still up in the air.”

Kelly has examined other NHL players, including Pat LaFontaine of the New York Rangers who missed almost all of last season because of post-concussion syndrome.

LaFontaine has been sidelined again after suffering a head injury more than two weeks ago.