Kariya Status Iffy for Opener

After weeks of uncertainty, left wing Paul Kariya was officially termed doubtful for Saturday’s opener against the Dallas Stars. The Mighty Ducks won’t make a final decision on his status until after Saturday morning’s skate, however.

Kariya, whose sore left hip sidelined him for all eight exhibition games, skated at close to top speed in practice Thursday. He plans to go at full throttle today and again Saturday morning.

But the final word will come from Coach Craig Hartsburg, who said that defenseman Kevin Haller, recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery, also is doubtful for Saturday.

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The Ducks are 0-6 in season openers, including a 1-0 loss to the Washington Capitals last season. They are winless at Dallas since the 1993-94 season and 2-11-1 overall at Reunion Arena.

None of which fazes Hartsburg.

“All we can do is worry about Saturday,” he said. “It’s a good challenge for our team. It’s one of the rinks we have to play well in.”