Rakell, Perron, Bieksa should be ready for Ducks playoffs

ANAHEIM, Calif. - The Anaheim Ducks reached the post-season and won the Pacific Division despite a dismayingly long injury list. They expect it to get shorter after they finally hit the ice against Nashville.

Anaheim general manager Bob Murray said he expects several injured players to return during the Ducks' first-round series against the Predators, who visit Honda Center for Game 1 on Friday night.

Key forwards Rickard Rakell and David Perron probably will play during the series, Murray said Tuesday. Defenceman Kevin Bieksa should return soon, and forward Brandon Pirri also could be available, although he appears to be farther away.

With health in mind, coach Bruce Boudreau gave all of his players two days off following their return from their season finale in Washington last weekend. They return to practice Wednesday.