Sawyer, Lambert Help Toughen Up Lineup

Mighty Duck enforcer Kevin Sawyer peeked over his shoulder while scuffling with Chicago’s Bob Probert during Friday’s game, a daring move considering Probert’s reputation.

But something caught Sawyer’s eye. Teammate Denny Lambert was going toe-to-toe with the Blackhawks’ Ryan Vandenbussche at the same time. Both fights broke out as soon as the puck was dropped during a second-period face off

“I told him that showed some confidence, doing that while in a fight with Probert,” Lambert said. “That whole game was old-time hockey.”

Which certainly hasn’t been Duck hockey, at least not to that extent. But that image may be changing. Sawyer and Lambert have added some punch to the lineup.

Friday was a prime example of that. Sawyer battled Probert, who has 3,182 penalty minutes in his career, three times. Lambert and Vandenbussche went at it three times as well.

Sawyer and Lambert were certainly intending to send a message. Teams in the past have taken liberties with Duck scorers, especially Paul Kariya.

“When we take care of things right away like last night, our skill guys can settle down and concentrate on what they need to do,” said Sawyer, a rookie at age 27.

Which meant Sawyer was ready from the start to take on Probert, one of the NHL’s legendary fighters.

“It was in the back of my mind all day yesterday,” Sawyer said. “Fighting him was kind of a thrill.”

TONIGHT

vs. Atlanta, 5

Channel 9

Site--Arrowhead Pond.

Radio--XTRA (690).

Records--Ducks 5-7-1-0, Thrashers 4-9-2-0.

Record vs. Atlanta (2000-01)--1-1.

Update--Right wing Marty McInnis will sit out tonight’s game because of a sprained right wrist. He is expected to return to the lineup Wednesday against Calgary. Left wing Mike Leclerc sat out Saturday’s practice because of “soreness,” he said. He is expected to play tonight.