Rookie Chistov Returns to Lineup

Trying to find the right combinations, Coach Mike Babcock returned rookie Stanislav Chistov to the lineup Friday night against Vancouver, skating him on the third line with Matt Cullen and Alexei Smirnov.

Chistov had a goal and four points while Smirnov had a goal and two points in the season-opening victory over St. Louis, but Chistov sat out Wednesday’s loss to the Kings.

Babcock met with Chistov and Smirnov, who is also a rookie, Friday morning. “I told them we haven’t won since they carried us, so it’s time to step up fellas,” Babcock said.

Not that there’s any pressure on Chistov, 19, and Smirnov, 20.

Said Paul Kariya: “Both of the kids are pretty loosey-goosey. They are enjoying themselves here. They have some serious skill out there. Being their first year, obviously consistency will be an issue. Hopefully by the second half they’ll ... be consistent producers.”

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The Montreal Canadiens are interested in acquiring left wing Denny Lambert, who was designated for assignment by the Ducks before the season, hockey sources said. However, the Canadiens are likely to wait to see if Lambert accepts a buyout from the Ducks on his contract, which would pay him $550,000 this season and $600,000 next season.

The Canadiens are in need of an enforcer because Gino Odjick is on an indefinite leave of absence. Lambert had two goals, seven points and 213 penalty minutes with the Ducks last season.

-- Chris Foster