Kariya’s Father Dies of a Heart Attack

Tetsuhiko Kariya, Paul Kariya’s father, died of a heart attack Friday evening in Vancouver, but Kariya played Saturday against the Canucks. Duck officials gave Kariya the option of remaining in Vancouver with his family for as long as needed, but he is expected to play tonight in Calgary.

T.K. Kariya, a high school math and physical education teacher in Vancouver, retired in June 2001. He had seen his son play every time the Ducks came to Vancouver and traveled to Southern California last February to watch him play in the All-Star game.

T.K. is survived by his wife, Sharon Kariya, three sons and two daughters. Steve Kariya, who plays for the Canucks’ minor league team in Manitoba, returned home Saturday. Martin Kariya remained at the University of Maine, where he plays hockey.

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The Ducks expressed interest in New York Ranger forward Radek Dvorak but backed off because the asking price was too high. The Rangers were believed to be seeking a forward in return.... Defenseman Fredrik Olausson was a healthy scratch against Vancouver. The Ducks play games on successive days and wanted to rest the 37-year-old veteran.

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TONIGHT

at Calgary, 5 PST

Site -- Pengrowth Saddledome.

Radio -- KPLS (830).

Records -- Ducks 15-12-6-3, Flames 10-18-5-3.

Record vs. Flames (2001-02) -- 2-1-1-0.

Update -- The Flames’ Jarome Iginla, the NHL leader in goals and points last season, has been slowed by injuries and has only eight goals and 21 points this season.

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-- Chris Foster