These Guys Have Skills, Now They Need Goals

Offense, and where the Ducks are going to find it each night, has been the lingering question since the season began.

There have been nights when grinders--like Dan Bylsma and Marc Chouinard--have provided bonus goals. Paul Kariya is going to get his. The defense seems capable from the blue line. Even German Titov has scored ... once.

But Coach Bryan Murray has in mind a group of players who need to contribute consistently.

“We need the guys who have the skills to find ways to get better,” Murray said. “They need to do whatever they have to do to get the puck in the net.”

Mike Leclerc and Steve Rucchin have been poster boys for that call to arms. Leclerc has five goals and Rucchin four. But Marty McInnis and Jeff Friesen were two names that came to Murray’s mind Saturday. McInnis, who returned Friday after sitting out two games because of a sprained right wrist, has two goals this season. Friesen has three goals, but none in the last nine games.

Friesen missed on a prime opportunity against Detroit Friday. He was alone in front of the net and shot high over the goal reaching deep into the seats.

“We have to do more with our chances,” Murray said. “I know Jeff is pressing and I see him in practice shaking his head sometimes. He has to be a little more determined. He has the speed to create some chances.”

Friesen had three goals and six points in the first seven games, but only has three assists in the nine games since he was moved onto the first line with Kariya and Rucchin.

“They are doing well, so I must be doing something to help,” Friesen said. “Whether it’s setting picks for them or whatever. Still, I want to have success. I need to do better.”

Friesen opened the season skating on a line with McInnis and Matt Cullen. His last goal was against Boston on Oct. 17. He was moved to the top line the next game.

TONIGHT

vs. Dallas, 5

Fox Sports Net 2

Site--Arrowhead Pond.

Radio--XTRA (690).

Records--Ducks 6-8-2-0, Dallas 5-6-3-3.

Record vs. Stars (2000-01)--0-4-0-1.

Update--Certainly before the season, the Ducks would have been thrilled to be within two points of Dallas at this point. But the Stars have problems. Centers Mike Modano and Pierre Turgeon are both out with injuries. The Stars are 1-4-1-1 on the road this season and have lost three consecutive road games. Steve Shields will start in goal for the Ducks tonight, only his second start since Oct. 18.

Tickets--(877) 945-3946.