Defenseman Shuttle Goes Nonstop

One defenseman back in the lineup, another back home.

The Ducks got Kevin Haller back Wednesday against the Colorado Avalanche, his first game since suffering a sprained left knee Nov. 15. But Fredrik Olausson did not make the one-game trip to Denver because he has flu.

That’s the way it’s been for the Ducks’ defense corps this season. Injuries and suspensions have left them scrambling for six healthy, eligible bodies on defense.

Coach Craig Hartsburg’s plan to carry eight defensemen on the roster seemed like overkill at the beginning of the season. Now, it’s keeping the Ducks competitive.

“We’re not asking for a whole lot from Kevin,” Hartsburg said at Wednesday’s morning skate. “We need him to come in and play a simple game.”

Olausson’s status for Friday’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks is not certain. He was one of three Ducks who did not make the trip.

Defenseman Pavel Trnka continues to be sidelined by a groin strain. Hartsburg hopes he will skate today for the first time since he was injured Dec. 8.

Hartsburg said center Antti Aalto, who sprained his left elbow Dec. 4, is not expected to play until after Jan. 1.

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The ice at the Pepsi Center got a thumbs up from Hartsburg after the team’s morning workout. Conditions at McNichols Arena, the Avalanche’s home until this season, were less favorable.

“The ice is great,” Hartsburg said. “It’s like [the surface in] Edmonton.”

That’s a ringing endorsement. Edmonton is renowned for having the best conditions in the NHL. Probably the permafrost, eh?