Payroll Reaches Record Heights

The Ducks have yet to play a game this season, but they have already set a franchise record. Their opening-night payroll will be an all-time high of about $35 million, according to figures supplied by the NHL Players’ Assn.

The exact figure wasn’t certain Friday because the NHLPA did not have contract information available for rookie defenseman Niclas Havelid.

Last season, the Ducks’ opening-night payroll was a bit more than $30 million. They had seven players making $1 million or more, led by Paul Kariya at $8.5 million.

This season, they have eight players making $1 million or more. Kariya again leads with a $10-million salary. Teemu Selanne is next at $5.45 million, followed by Guy Hebert at $4.5 million.

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Enforcer Stu Grimson missed his second consecutive day of practice because of a strained neck. He was injured in practice Wednesday and underwent X-ray and MRI exams Thursday. Both were negative.

“I hope to be back on the ice [today],” Grimson said. “The doctors just wanted to make sure I had the full range of motion back before I played.”

at Dallas

5, Channel 9

* Site--Reunion Arena.

* Radio--KOGO (600).

* Records (1998-99)--Ducks 35-34-13, Stars 51-19-12.

* Record vs. Stars (1998-99)--1-4-1.

* Update--The Ducks are 0-6 in season openers. Left wing Paul Kariya (sore left hip) and defenseman Kevin Haller (recovering from knee surgery) are listed as doubtful. Guy Hebert is expected to start in goal tonight. Dallas opened the season Friday by hosting Pittsburgh. Dallas defenseman Richard Matvichuk remains unsigned and will not play. Right wing Grant Marshall is sidelined because of a groin injury suffered in the playoffs.