Sauer Sprains Left Ankle

Defenseman Kurt Sauer, a key part of the Mighty Ducks’ defense, sat out much of Saturday’s game against Phoenix after suffering a sprained left ankle.

X-rays were negative, but Sauer will be unavailable for tonight’s rematch with the Coyotes. He is listed as day-to-day.

Sauer was injured early in the first period when a pass by Phoenix’s Branko Radivojevic hit him in the skate.

“It felt like I lost a rivet in my skate,” Sauer said. “I couldn’t move on it. I’ll get some rest and see how it is tomorrow. I hope this heals quick.”

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The growing possibility that the Ducks will have new ownership has players interested but hardly concerned at this point.

Disney has been trying to unload the team for a few years. There are believed to be three parties serious about purchasing the team, including Joe and Gavin Maloof, who also own the Sacramento Kings.

“I don’t really think the sale will affect us,” said Duck captain Steve Rucchin, who has been with the team since 1994-95, the longest tenure of any player.

“It might be good to have someone new come in. It certainly would want to make you get off on the right foot with them. At the same time, Disney has been a great owner for us. I don’t think it will make a difference, unless they pack us up and move us to another city.”

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The Ducks, who won 10 overtime games in the playoffs, have a 1-3 overtime record after Saturday’s loss.

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TONIGHT

vs. Phoenix, 5

Channel 9

Site -- Arrowhead Pond.

Radio -- XPRS (1090).

Records -- Ducks 4-7-1-3; Coyotes 4-6-3-0.

Record vs. Coyotes -- 0-1-0-1.

Update -- The Coyotes have won four consecutive games against the Ducks.

Tickets -- (877) 945-3946.