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Ducks try to end four-game slide vs. Stars

Jan 28, 2007 - 3:05 PM Dallas (29-18-2) at Anaheim (30-12-8) 3:30 pm EST

ANAHEIM, California (Ticker) -- The Anaheim Ducks are hoping their batteries have been fully recharged for their first contest in nine days.

Back in action for the first time after Wednesday's All-Star Game, the Ducks attempt to halt a four-game losing streak Sunday against the Dallas Stars.

Anaheim got off to a tremendous start by going 16 games without a regulation loss and had the best record in the Western Conference for much of the campaign. However, the Ducks have dropped nine of their last 11 and lead the San Jose Sharks by just two points in the Pacific Division.

Defenseman Scott Niedermayer is listed as doubtful because of a stress fracture in his foot that kept him out of the All-Star game. He scored twice and fellow All-Star Andy McDonald had two assists for the Ducks in a 3-2 loss to the Calgary Flames on January 19.

Although they have just one less victory than Anaheim, the Stars are eighth points back in the division race after winning three of their last four contests.

Following three straight victories prior to the break, Dallas suffered a 4-3 shootout loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday. Jussi Jokinen scored his 10th goal of the season and All-Star Philippe Boucher collected two assists.

Anaheim has won two of the first three meetings against the Stars this season, including a 5-1 triumph January 11. All-Star Teemu Selanne, who ranks among the league-leaders with 30 goals, registered his 19th career hat trick.