Ducks recall Brendan Mikkelson while James Wisniewski nurses shoulder injury

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Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski sprained his right shoulder Saturday during the team’s 3-2 shootout victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, and team spokesman Alex Gilchrist said he is listed as week-to-week.

Because of Wisniewski’s absence that begins today against the New York Rangers, the Ducks have recalled defenseman Brendan Mikkelson from the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League. After being among the wave of cuts during the Ducks’ training camp, Mikkelson has played in two games with Toronto and has recorded one assist.

Gilchrist said Mikkelson will be available for today’s game. Although Mikkelson played in 34 games last season with the Ducks, Coach Randy Carlyle told reporters he didn’t make the roster because ‘going to the American Hockey League and playing versus sitting here sporadically is a much better option for him.’ Mikkelson’s arrival coincides with Wisniewski’s injury, but Gilchrist said it’s not definitive Mikkelson would be sent back to Toronto as soon as Wisniewski returns.

Wisniewski played 23 minutes, 20 seconds Saturday, had three shots on goal and blocked three shots. He has had four assists in his first four games.

-- Mark Medina