Rucchin Keys Improvement

A subplot to the Mighty Ducks’ weekend salvage job -- they picked up three points in two games with Phoenix -- was the play of center Steve Rucchin.

In the last month, Rucchin has labored with various physical problems, including an infection in his right knee. His struggles translated into Duck difficulties on the ice.

A healthier Rucchin was on display Saturday and Sunday and was a key factor in the Ducks’ improved play.

“I think the big thing was, my knee is feeling a lot better,” Rucchin said after Sunday’s game. “... It definitely has gotten a lot better.”

Rucchin scored two goals in a 4-3 overtime loss Saturday in Phoenix, both after battling in front of the net on power plays. He had a short-handed goal in a 2-1 overtime victory Sunday. He was also a force defensively.

“It makes it a little more fun to play on a nightly basis,” said Rucchin, who is tied for the team lead with six goals. “Hopefully, it will just keep improving.”

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Rookie Joffrey Lupul has definitely exceeded expectations. He has two goals and six points in 15 games, and is playing with abandon.

But the true barometer of how well he is doing is the way Coach Mike Babcock tiptoes on eggshells when discussing Lupul.

Asked after Sunday’s game about Lupul’s determination to shoot, Babcock said, “That’s all he does. Every time he gets [the puck], he doesn’t care who’s yelling for the pass. I thought he was great.”

Babcock then paused, smiled and said, “No, let’s not say that in the paper, then he’ll be a dog next game. Just say he was brutal, and he’ll be fine.”