Games Aren’t the Only Things Being Lost

Finding good news regarding the Mighty Ducks these days is getting difficult.

Besides beings on a five-game losing streak that has them hurdling downward, the Ducks find themselves undermanned.

Mike Leclerc: Injured.

Marc Chouinard: Injured.

Kevin Sawyer: Injured.

Mike Brown: Injured.

The Ducks are in such a state that an emergency call was made to Cincinnati for reinforcements who have yet to prove they are ready for the NHL. Forwards Alexei Smirnov and Rob Valicevic were recalled to replace Leclerc (knee injury) and Chouinard (strained neck).

Smirnov, a rookie, had one goal in 18 games with the Ducks this season. Valicevic, 31, played 17 games for the Kings last season and has been at Cincinnati this season.

Leclerc, who did not play in the third period against Philadelphia on Friday, had surgery on his left knee in November, but has had swelling after games and practice since he returned in mid-December. He has had the knee drained twice and he will be re-evaluated today.

Leclerc and Brown (strained back) were put on injured reserve Saturday, joining Sawyer (concussion).

Chouinard left after the first period Friday. He was being checked for concussion symptoms and is unlikely to play tonight against Dallas.

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TONIGHT

vs. Dallas, 5:30

ESPN

Site -- Arrowhead Pond

Radio -- KPLS (830).

Records -- Ducks 15-15-6-3; Stars 22-10-9-1.

Record vs. Stars -- 0-2-0-0.

Update -- The Stars are the only team from the Pacific Division among the top eight in points in the Western Conference. Duck goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who missed Friday’s game with a sore neck, practiced Saturday but is doubtful for tonight’s game. Martin Gerber will likely start in goal.

Tickets -- (877) 945-3946.