Giroux and Hartnell miss practice

Claude Giroux, the Flyers' outstanding rookie center, underwent extensive tests yesterday at Pennsylvania Hospital to find out why he has been suffering from stomach pains the last two weeks.

"I just wanted to make sure I didn't have an ulcer," he said.

The tests revealed he had acid reflux, Giroux said.

"Must be the cheesesteaks," he kidded after being released from the hospital and placed on medication.

Giroux missed yesterday's practice at the Wachovia Center, but he will be in the lineup tonight against visiting Florida.

Left winger Scott Hartnell, one of four Flyers with at least 30 goals this season, also missed yesterday's practice. Hartnell is suffering from pink eye but is also expected to play tonight.

Breakaways. The Flyers are 1-2 against Florida. . . . The Flyers will announce team award winners in a pregame ceremony tonight. About 550 tickets remain for the game.

- Sam Carchidi