DUCKS REPORT : Next Step Is the Question

When training camp opened, the Mighty Ducks passed out T-shirts to the players that read: Take the next step.

It’s a catchy slogan, but what does it mean?

Pierre Gauthier, team president and general manager, tried his best to offer some insight. But he could not provide a clear definition of the team’s goals for 1999-2000, other than to say returning to the playoffs was a top priority. “The only way I know how to produce a winner is the way we’re doing it,” he said. “It’s a step-by-step program.”

So, if the franchise were in a 12-step program with a Stanley Cup championship as the final step, on which step would it be today? “I wish I knew,” he said. “We’re going in the right direction. It’s not a team that you could say is an automatic for the playoffs. I’m not into predictions, but we’re very confident that we can be better [than a 35-34-13 record last season].

“How far does it take us? I don’t know.”

Unlike last season, the Ducks don’t have a number of nagging questions during camp.

“I don’t want to build expectations to where we’re supposed to be in the Stanley Cup finals this year,” Gauthier said. “Our challenge is to take a step in that direction.”

*

Left wing Marty McInnis suffered a strained right ankle Monday and could not participate in the scrimmages. He said the injury is not serious and he expects to resume skating today.