Defense Holds in Karpa’s Absence

Defenseman Dave Karpa returned to the lineup Friday after sitting out 13 games because of a broken right hand.

The Ducks fared better than they imagined they would without him, going 7-4-2, in part because of the unexpectedly solid play of rookie Dan Trebil and better defensive commitment from the forwards.

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General Manager Jack Ferreira would like to add scoring depth up front before the March 18 trading deadline. The Islanders’ Bryan Smolinski, a player the Ducks have coveted since he played for Ron Wilson’s World Cup team, might be available.

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The resurgence of the talented but inconsistent Roman Oksiuta was short-lived. He played a handful of games last month but has been scratched the last nine and 39 times in 66 games this season.