Injuries Have Not Been a Problem

There’s a wave of strained groins and pulled hamstrings that have swept through training camps across the league, but the Ducks have emerged with little damage.

In fact, they’ve mostly avoided the injury bug altogether, something that was key last season. The Ducks are expected to have everyone who’s remaining in camp available for tonight’s final exhibition against the Phoenix Coyotes at Glendale, Ariz.

Veteran forward Travis Green has been the only player to miss an extended period of time with a hip problem, but he skated through a full practice Friday and may suit up tonight.

Ducks Coach Randy Carlyle was impressed with his team’s fitness at the beginning of camp and said there is more than good fortune behind their ability to stay healthy.

“It speaks to the organization’s mandate to our playing personnel that conditioning is going to be a huge asset in them moving forward as a professional,� Carlyle said. “We’re going to spend the time and effort in making sure they’re educated in that area.�

Center Todd Marchant said that players, especially veterans, need to be in better shape now if they want to keep up with the increasing speed of the game.

Marchant noted that when he began with the Edmonton Oilers a decade ago, the team had only two stationary bikes. Much has changed. The Ducks, for example, have workout rooms at both the Arrowhead Pond and at Anaheim Ice, their practice facility.

“Office workouts were very few and far between in the summertime,� Marchant said. “There wasn’t a total emphasis. They wanted you to come in shape. Now it’s where they want you to be in midseason shape. It’s definitely gone to a whole other level since I first started.�

Marchant said their conditioning is especially needed to maintain their aggressive forechecking style over a long season.

“We’re always doing a little extra here and there, whether it’s on the ice or off,� he said. “Hopefully it will pay off down the road when we’re going to need it.�

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The Ducks will skate what will be close to their regular lineup. It could be a pivotal game for players such as Green or left wing Stanislav Chistov as they try to fend off rookie hopefuls Ryan Shannon and Tim Brent for a roster spot. Teams need to submit their rosters by Tuesday.

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