Rucchin Facing More Tests

Steve Rucchin, who has sat out 31 games because of post-concussion syndrome, returned from Chicago on Friday facing a slew of new medical tests.

Rucchin was examined Thursday by Dr. James Kelly, a concussion specialist who recommended further testing. Rucchin will undergo a series of neurological tests this week.

“It’s still too early for a diagnosis,” Rucchin said. “I’m hoping that this will finally give me a conclusion.”

Rucchin was injured Nov. 15 when he was struck in the face by a puck. He suffered a broken nose and cheekbone, which forced him to sit out 10 games. He returned for two games, but began experiencing dizziness.

Unable to resolve the problem, the Ducks sent him to Kelly, who has treated Paul Kariya, Eric Lindros and Pat LaFontaine, all of whom suffered from post-concussion syndrome.

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In their eight games since the All-Star break, the Ducks have a 91% success rate on the penalty kill (41 of 45). They are 2-3-2-1 in that span.

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Left wing Marty McInnis returns to the Ducks’ lineup tonight with another mouth to feed. His wife, Missy, gave birth to a 6-pound, 13-ounce boy named Chase McInnis.

Chase McInnis? Isn’t that what defensemen do?

TONIGHT

vs. Columbus, 5

Channel 9

* Site--Arrowhead Pond.

* Radio--XTRA (690).

* Records--Ducks 18-32-8-5, Blue Jackets 18-31-7-6.

* Record vs. Blue Jackets--1-2-0-0.

* Update--The winner escapes last place in the Western Conference. Duck defenseman Mike Crowley, who left Friday’s game after being hit in the head by the Sharks’ Marco Sturm, is questionable.

* Tickets--(714) 704-2701.