Playoff Fever Is Low Grade

The Mighty Ducks are fighting for a playoff spot for the first time since the 1999-2000 season, but they have yet to stir the masses.

The Ducks had won four of five games before Monday’s matinee against the Minnesota Wild, a team they are pursuing in the standings. The game drew an announced 13,331, with the actual crowd being estimated below 10,000.

Large areas in the lower bowl and club level are usually vacant. Of the 84 luxury suites at the Arrowhead Pond, nearly one-third were empty Monday. Officials said that all but 14 suites were unlocked for the game, but a count during the third period found 26 empty.

The Ducks have a program where season-ticket holders can turn in their tickets they don’t intend to use. The Ducks also have an incentive plan for season ticket holders who show up.

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Forward Dan Bylsma sat out Monday’s game because of a knee injury. He had an MRI exam and had the knee drained of fluid.

Andy McDonald (concussion) said he would skate today and hopes to play Friday against New Jersey. Kevin Sawyer (concussion) suffered a setback last week, but said he planned to ride a stationary bike today.

-- Chris Foster