Charron Unfazed by Kariya Drought

Paul Kariya’s last goal for the Ducks was March 14 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, when he scored two goals and narrowly missed a hat track. His last assist was March 13 against the Washington Capitals, when he set up Tony Hrkac with a pretty give-and-go.

“I don’t think there’s any reason to be concerned about Paul,” Coach Guy Charron said. “As long as he’s getting shots, there’s no reason to be overly concerned. Right now, people are very aware that Paul is a game-breaker. He hasn’t had a lot of space to work with lately. As a line, those guys have to find ways to create space.”

Kariya has been teamed with Hrkac and winger Jeff Friesen, forming the Ducks’ top line since Friesen was acquired from the San Jose Sharks in the March 5 trade that sent Teemu Selanne to San Jose.

*

Kariya, the Ducks’ leading scorer with 58 points, does not plan to play for Canada in the World Championships next month in Germany. Kariya hopes extra rest will help heal several injuries, including the broken foot he suffered blocking a shot Dec. 17 against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

TONIGHT

at San Jose, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

* Site--Compaq Center at San Jose.

* Radio--XTRA (690).

* Records--Ducks 24-38-9-5, Sharks 36-26-12-2.

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

* Update--This will be the first game between the teams since the blockbuster trade. Jean-Sebastien Giguere is expected to make his 20th consecutive start in goal for the Ducks, who are 6-3-1 in their last 10 games. The Sharks ended a six-game winless streak Tuesday night with a 3-2 overtime victory over the Kings.