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Rejuvenated Ducks roll into Calgary

Dec 29, 2007 - 2:10 PM Anaheim (19-15-5) at Calgary (17-14-7) 10:00 pm EST

CALGARY, Alberta (Ticker) - Anaheim Ducks coach Randy Carlyle must really love seeing Scott Niedermayer patrolling the blue line.

The 34-year-old defenseman will attempt to lead the Ducks to their fifth consecutive victory when they visit the Calgary Flames on Saturday.

After Niedermayer contemplated retirement for the first 2 1/2 months of the season, his return has been a huge lift to the defending Stanley Cup champions. The reigning Conn Smythe winner has managed just two assists, but Anaheim has posted a 4-0-1 record since his return.

The Ducks also have won four straight contests on the road dating back to December 8.

The Flames have lost three consecutive games after completing a perfect six-game road trip.

Miikka Kiprusoff continued his disappointing season Thursday, allowing five goals on 20 shots and getting replaced midway through the third period. After registering 17 shutouts over the past two campaigns, the 31-year-old netminder has none this season.

Offensively, Calgary is led by Jarome Iginla, who has 25 goals and 50 points.