Selanne, McInnis Pursue More Breakout Moments

Teemu Selanne has scored three goals in the last two games. Marty McInnis had two against Calgary last Friday.

So the Mighty Ducks have not had to live off the Peter Tenkrat-types on their roster. With Paul Kariya, Steve Rucchin and Mike Leclerc injured, the Ducks’ offensive threats are limited. Which is why breakout moments by Selanne and McInnis were so important.

Selanne had gone 14 games without a goal, not counting four games he sat out because of a groin injury, before scoring against Florida last Wednesday. Then he scored two against Calgary.

McInnis had scored only three goals in 21 games when he tossed in two against the Flames.

Selanne and McInnis are tied for the team lead with 14 goals.

“With the guys we have injured, some of us have to do a little extra,” said Selanne, who has never scored fewer than 25 goals in a full NHL season. “Guys have to take charge. That’s good kind of pressure.”

Selanne blamed his slump on injuries.

“When you’re healthy and you get chances, you can use your speed,” he said. “But confidence is everything. If you don’t have it, you can’t play.”

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Selanne’s offensive awakening, combined with the Ducks’ slipping from the playoff picture, will certainly rekindle trade speculation.

“It happens every year,” Selanne said. “I think it starts with two guys talking in a bar. One calls a friend and it gets around.”

Selanne, who has a year left on his contract, said he would prefer to finish his career with the Ducks.

TONIGHT

vs. St. Louis, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Arrowhead Pond.

* Radio--XTRA (690).

* Records--Ducks 14-19-6-4, Blues 27-7-4-1.

* Record vs. Blues--0-2.

* Update--Guy Charron said Leclerc would not play tonight, missing his fourth consecutive game because of a sore right knee. The Blues have hit a slump, going 3-3-0-1 while playing seven games in 12 days.

* Tickets--(714) 703-2545