GOALTENDING STATISTICS

Norfolk’s AHL future in jeopardy

The future of American League hockey in Norfolk, Va., is uncertain after owners Mark Garcea and Page Johnson put the Admirals up for sale in late January. “It is our sincere hope we can secure a local investor who will continue to operate the Admirals here in Hampton Roads,” Johnson said. Garcea and Johnson cited declining attendance, poor corporate support and the uncertainty of needed renovations at the city-owned Norfolk Scope arena as reasons. According to the Virginian-Pilot, Norfolk mayor Paul D. Fraim said Garcea and Johnson told the city they’re losing $750,000 a season. This is the team’s fourth year in the league. AHL president Dave Andrews expressed hope local ownership could be found, allowing the Ads to remain in the league next season. Norfolk’s affiliation agreement with the Chicago Blackhawks expires at…

Steel City boy Malone makes good right at home

Pittsburgh’s native son has exceeded even his GM’s expectations in his rookie year. Ryan Malone, the first Pittsburgh-born play-er to suit up for the Penguins, was fourth among rookie scorers through 51 games with 23 points. He and defenseman Brooks Orpik were the two Penguins named to the NHL’s YoungStars Game. Malone’s 11 goals were more than such notable play-ers as Alexei Kovalev, Eric Lindros and Mike Modano. Not bad for a fourth round draft pick in 1999 whose picture isn’t even in the Penguins’ media guide. “We had high hopes for him,” GM Craig Patrick said, “but I didn’t anticipate he’d be doing what he’s doing this soon.” The 6-foot-4 Malone, who played at Saint Cloud State, is the son of ex-Penguins player and current head scout Greg Malone. Like his father, the…

Swift Current tandem gives team firepower

The Swift Current Broncos have quite a one-two punch. Through 52 games, Broncos left winger Tyler Redenbach had 81 points, tops in the Western League. His linemate, center Jeremy Williams, had a league-high 40 goals. “They’re good friends off the ice,” said Broncos coach Randy Smith. “They do good things on the ice. They’ve proven they’re lethal when they get the opportunity.” Redenbach’s pure passing ability is a complement to Williams’s marksmanship. “It’s great,” Williams said. “I don’t think I could do it without him…I like going out there knowing you have somebody who can thread the needle like that and get you those passes.” Both players were chosen in the 2003 NHL draft - Redenbach by the Phoenix Coyotes (77th overall) and Williams by the Toronto Maple Leafs (220th overall). WHAT CUP? The 2004…