Toledo Walleye forward Joey Martin re-signed
9/17/2012The Toledo Walleye's top offensive producer from last season is expected to re-sign with the team today.
Forward Joey Martin started his pro career with Toledo last season and led the team in goals scored, assists, and points. He is expected to agree to terms with the organization.
Martin scored 22 goals to go along with 27 assists for a total of 49 points.
Walleye coach Nick Vitucci scouted Martin when he played at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. In his four-year college career, Martin collected 103 points (39 goals and 64 assists) in 152 games.
“I thought Martin had the skill set to be a great player for us going into last season,” Vitucci said. “Joey was fantastic throughout much of last season. He will be a key component for us to be successful this coming year.”
Martin, 24, also was called up to the American Hockey League on two occasions last season. He played in eight games with the Houston Aeros and had two goals.
The Thorold, Ontario native was named the ECHL Player of the Week for Jan. 9-15 when he scored four goals with three assists.
The team also is expected to re-sign defenseman Joey Ryan on Monday. Ryan was acquired by the Walleye in a trade with Elmira on Nov. 18 last season.
In 37 games with Toledo, Ryan collected 63 penalty minutes and 15 points (3 G, 12 A). He appeared in 11 games with the Jackals before the trade and had five assists.
“Ryan was a great addition for us last year,” Vitucci said. “He has a great defensive mind and brings an added element of toughness to us.”
Ryan, 24, was originally a second round draft choice of the Los Angeles Kings in the 2006 NHL draft. The Stoneham, Mass. native has played in 197 pro games and has 15 goals, 52 assists with 350 penalty minutes.
The Walleye open the season on Oct. 13 against Kalamazoo at the Huntington Center. Season tickets are on sale online at toledowalleye.com or at 419-725-9255.