Kohn Doesn’t Back Down

The Ducks may have some enforcers, but they were stunned to see playmaking right wing Ladislav Kohn tangling with veteran troublemaker Kelly Buchberger of the Atlanta Thrashers early in the second period of a scoreless game Sunday.

“I thought that was the biggest play of the game,” captain Paul Kariya said.

Added Teemu Selanne: “It was a huge play. The guys on the bench couldn’t believe it. We all said, ‘What’s he doing?’ Afterward, he was a hero.”

Kohn hit Atlanta rookie Patrik Stefan with a tough but legal check at center ice. Buchberger arrived on the scene moments later, looking for a payback along the boards.

Kohn didn’t back down. Off went the gloves. Kohn and Buchberger then fought to a draw.

“He’s a real character guy,” said Kohn, who is three inches shorter and 20 pounds lighter than the 6-foot-2, 210-pound Buchberger. “He was doing what he’s supposed to do--protecting a teammate. I was answering the bell, facing the music.”

And picking up his first fighting major this season.

“I’ve been in a few fights,” he said. “It’s not something new for me. . . . Whatever helps the team to create energy.”

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Defenseman Kevin Haller was pronounced fit to play Sunday, but he was sidelined for a 12th game because of a sprained left knee.