Depth at Center Means Marha Sits

Center Josef Marha was not in the lineup for the third consecutive game Wednesday against the Vancouver Canucks. He’s neither injured nor playing poorly, according to Duck Coach Craig Hartsburg.

There’s simply a numbers problem for the Ducks at center ice. There’s too much depth and Marha was the odd man out again Wednesday.

“The guys ahead of him have played better,” Hartsburg said. “That’s the deal.”

Matt Cullen had a goal and two assists in three games before Wednesday. Travis Green has been moved to the right wing to make way for Cullen.

Johan Davidsson, who scored two goals against Vancouver, has played impressively since being scratched for the Dec. 1 game against Pittsburgh.

Steve Rucchin rejoined Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne as the top-line center Wednesday. Ted Drury has won the job as the checking line’s center.

Asked if Marha might be sent to Cincinnati of the American Hockey League to get more playing time, Hartsburg said, “Not at this point.”

Marha has one assist in six games. He was sidelined for nine games because of a sprained right ankle, then played eight games for Cincinnati while regaining his fitness.

The Ducks announced an extension to their working agreement with Cincinnati, but the length of the deal was not made public.