Fedorov Becomes a Foe

The Ducks find themselves 9-7-2 since acquiring journeyman forward Tyler Wright and rookie defenseman Francois Beauchemin from the Columbus Blue Jackets for center Sergei Fedorov. The teams meet Wednesday for the first time since the trade.

Shortly after trading Fedorov last month, Duck General Manager Brian Burke conceded that payroll was more of a consideration in the deal than Federov’s role with the team.

But the Ducks have been pleasantly surprised by Wright and Beauchemin.

“The new guys were accepted with open arms,” right wing Joffrey Lupul said. “You hate to see a friend go, but you wish him the best. It’ll be fun to play and compete against him.”

Wright, who has two goals and two assists, has combined with Todd Fedoruk and Zenon Konopka to provide unexpected but welcomed fourth-line offense.

Beauchemin has two goals and 11 points with the Ducks as he learns under Norris Trophy winner Scott Niedermayer.

Fedorov has one goal and six assists since joining the Blue Jackets.

Wright returned to Ohio during the Ducks’ four-day holiday break to see his family and is looking forward to the return trip.

“Any time you get a chance to play against your old team, you’re excited about it,” Wright said.

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Defenseman Sandis Ozolinsh, on injured reserve because of a sprained knee, was excused from practice for personal reasons.

Ozolinsh, who has played only 13 games and has been out since Nov. 27, is scheduled to return to the team during its five-game road swing. He remains doubtful for Wednesday.

“He’s been away for so long it’s like we really haven’t had him,” Duck Coach Randy Carlyle said.

“We are trying to make sure everything is right and when he gets an opportunity to come in, we’ll judge where he’s at.”