Salei Skates Through Practice

Defenseman Ruslan Salei went through a partial practice Friday, as he tries to return after being sidelined because of a back injury. Coach Mike Babcock said Salei would play Tuesday at Nashville and Friday against Colorado.

“It feels a little bit better,” said Salei, who has missed 10 games. “We’ll see how I feel tomorrow. I hope to get a full practice in. As for playing, we’re shooting for Tuesday.”

The Ducks miss Salei’s physical play. He is also one of their better penalty killers and is capable on the offensive end.

“We miss his smiling disposition out there,” Babcock said. “It’s not like we’ve been pushing at all, but we’re very confident he can be ready for the playoffs.”

The same cannot be said for center Andy McDonald, who skated before practice Friday. He has missed 32 of 36 games after suffering a concussion against Colorado on Jan. 9.

“Andy is trying real hard to get back,” Babcock said. “I don’t know if he’s his own worst enemy because he’s trying so hard to get back. Andy would just be a bonus.”

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Martin Gerber will start in goal against Vancouver on Sunday. Babcock said he would split the remaining four games between his goalies.