Extra days help Carter’s ankle

If terms of pre-series storylines, Jeff Carter fell off the map relatively quickly. At the end of the regular season, much of the media talk was about whether Carter would be able to return from his ankle injury and be a threat in the series. After four games, the results are mixed. In terms of basic play and movement, Carter has looked increasingly comfortable in each game, and he has played approximately 20 minutes in three of the four games. Carter had two assists in Game 1 but in the last three games, he has not recorded a point and has a minus-3 rating, although he did record seven shots on goal in Game 4. After practice today, Carter talked about his ankle and about the challenges his line faces, particularly on the defensive side when matched up against one of Vancouver’s top two lines…

CARTER: “Yeah, it’s getting better. I think with the two days before the last game, and then the extra day here, it’s probably not an ideal situation (in general), but for myself personally and for some other guys around here that are a little banged up, it’s nice to get a little extra rest.’’

Question: In terms of matchups, do things significantly change for you guys, in terms of home or road games?

CARTER: “This series, I don’t think it has (changed) at all, really. It’s either been Kesler or Sedin. I’d assume that we will probably see the Sedins again on Sunday. That’s kind of what we prepare for.’’

Question: In terms of matchups, Darryl doesn’t seem to be too stressed about which line gets their top line. It doesn’t seem to be an issue with him…

CARTER: “No, I don’t think it is at all. To be honest with you, even Fraz’s [Colin Fraser] line played against them in the last game and did a great job as well.’’