Specialist to Take a Look at Rucchin

Center Steve Rucchin, suffering from post-concussion syndrome since breaking his nose and cheekbone Nov. 15, will be examined Friday by James Kelly, a Chicago-based concussion specialist.

Kelly has examined Paul Kariya, Eric Lindros and Pat LaFontaine, among other NHL players who have suffered from dizziness and headaches associated with post-concussion syndrome.

“He’s not going to have any magical answers,” said Rucchin, who was injured when Teemu Selanne’s deflected slap shot struck him in the face. “It’s gotten to the point where I need to see [Kelly] in person.”

Rucchin is hopeful of playing again this season but acknowledged it was a longshot.

“I don’t want to say that I don’t see it happening,” he said of a possible return before the season ends April 8. “Every day I wake up feeling that it will be better. There’s no question I want to come back, if for no other reason than my peace of mind.”

*

Tuesday marked two weeks since defenseman Niclas Havelid underwent surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Havelid, who began rehab exercises last week, is expected to be off skates for about six months.

“So far, everything is on schedule,” said Havelid, who was injured Jan. 15 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. “The knee is still pretty swollen, but it’s going to be like that for a while.”

TONIGHT

vs. San Jose

7:30, Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Arrowhead Pond.

* Radio--XTRA (690).

* Records--Ducks 17-31-8-5, Sharks 33-16-10-0.

* Record vs. Sharks--0-0-0-1.

* Update--Kariya, who had his first three-goal game in three years Monday against the Calgary Flames, has six goals and seven assists during a seven-game point streak. Selanne matched his career high with five points (two goals, three assists) Monday.

* Tickets--(714) 703-2545.