Ice Dogs Expected to Lose Top Scorer Norris to Ducks

Six days after trading top player Hubie McDonough, the Ice Dogs look as if they are going to lose top scorer Dwayne Norris.

Norris, a right winger who leads the Ice Dogs with 23 points, is expected to sign with the Mighty Ducks within the next two days.

“He has an out in his contract,” said John Van Boxmeer, the Ice Dogs’ coach and general manager. “It’s disappointing. But he, like everyone, wants to play in the NHL. One of the reasons he came here was that I kind of sold him on the idea that he would be able to showcase his talents to NHL teams.”

Pierre Gauthier, assistant general manager for the Mighty Ducks, confirmed that they intend to sign Norris and assign him to Baltimore of the American Hockey League if the player clears waivers.

The Ice Dogs, suffering financially from low attendance despite a fast start, are not expected to replace Norris in the near future. His contract is believed to be worth more than $150,000.

In another move, Executive Vice President John Lehr left the team last week after meeting with owner Fred Comrie. Lehr was involved in business and financial affairs and oversaw daily operations. He also served as the Ice Dogs’ liaison with the Coliseum Commission. His position was eliminated.