Selanne Doesn’t Blame Referees

Although he concedes he is frustrated by the rough tactics employed against him, Teemu Selanne said he doesn’t blame referees for sometimes failing to call hooking and holding penalties.

“The referees try their best,” he said. “They only have two eyes and there’s a lot of action going on. You expect them to see everything and, of course, they can’t.”

Asked if he was in favor of adding a second referee, as some have suggested, Selanne said:

“It would be easier for the players. But if you have two referees they would have to be on the same page all the time.”

When asked if he was aware he was ahead of his goal-scoring pace from his 76-goal rookie season in 1992-93, Selanne said with a laugh: “Don’t even start that.”

Certainly, opposing coaches are well aware Selanne has 20 goals in as many games.

“We respected Selanne’s ability,” new Vancouver Coach Mike Keenan said. “He’s electrifying and he’s confident and playing really well right now. I thought we handled him pretty well.”

TONIGHT

vs.

Dallas

* 5

* Channel 9

Site--The Pond.

Radio--KRLA (1110), KPLS (830), KCKC (1350).

Records--Ducks 8-7-5, Stars 11-6-4.

Record vs. Stars (1996-97)--1-3.

Update--Duck winger Tomas Sandstrom needed 10 stitches to close a cut on the top of his left foot but is expected to play against Dallas. He was cut by the skate blade of a Vancouver player during Friday’s 3-3 tie. Sandstrom played most of Friday’s game at his customary right wing position. He has been playing a more defensive role in the Ducks’ left-wing lock system this season, however. Dallas leads the all-time series, 12-5.