Additions (Excluding Draft Picks): Tom Pyatt, Brad Marchand, Patrick Kaleta, Paul Gaustad, Ludvig Rensfeldt, Zach Boychuk
Subtractions: Michael Grabner, Jay McClement, Gilbert Brule, Daniel Catenacci, David Hale, Tim Kennedy, Shaone Morrison, Jed Ortmeyer
Prospect Promotions: Anton Babchuk
Bombers have not made any significant changes to the team this year, instead, relying on the core base of young players.
Forwards
The Bombers are the only team in the BFHL that fully utilizes all 4 forward lines, with ice times ranging from 29% on the first line, to 23% on line 4. Line 1 remains relatively unchanged with formerly line 2 winger Brenden Morrow now joining Doan and Richards. Line 2 also remains relatively the same, with MacArthur now teaming up with last year's Peverley and Gionta. The Bombers have managed to build a much more physical 3rd line and also traded to obtain the faceoff services of Paul Gaustad to compliment Brad Marchand and Milan Lucic. Checking line 4 centerman Scott Nichols remain, to center two new wingers, Tom Pyatt and Teddy Purcell. Due to the way the Bombers are rolling the 4 lines, the offense has been spread out evenly, with line 3 and 4 contributing significantly. In a surprising move, the Bombers have granted Scott Nichols the C - showing the team's commitment towards defense.
Defensemen:
While the team is much deeper in the forward positions, the team has dramatically regressed on D. The team is currently lacking a true powerplay quarterback other than Phaneuf, rotating Cody Franson, Anton Babchuk and Andrej Sekera. Penalty killing has been less impressive, with Hjalmarsson being the shut down defensemen. Volchenkov is struggling with his defensive coverage but will hopefully turn his game around next year.
Goaltending:
Tim Thomas has been stellar on a mediocre team, with a .935 save percentage. His aggressive play is expected, and the team hopes he will continue hitting pansy players hovering near his crease as demonstrated in the NHL 2010-2011 playoffs. Jimmy Howard will be a significant contributor next year and may potentially unseat Thomas as the team's true #1.
Players on the Bubble:
Many players are fighting for their jobs. Anton Stralman lost his PP QB position and must show that he can contribute next year. Nick Palmieri, Patrick Kaleta, Matt Hunwick and Marty Turco must also step up their games and be much better next year or their contracts will not be renewed. Frolik signed a 3 year $2.2mm/yr contract with the Bombers and has been playing very strong in the NHL, but has not yet produced the points expected, although the Blackhawks have noted they are not concerned given his strong play to date.
Next Year's Plans:
Bombers are hoping to lock up Zach Boychuk with a long term 4 year sub $1mm/yr contract, given the limited ice time he is receiving in the NHL. The Bombers are known for seeking emerging talent at low prices (Purcell, MacArthur, Lucic, Grabner before he was traded, Marchand, Ennis) although it has also resulted in a few busts (Gagner, Brule now with Worgs, Bergfors). The team may potentially activate a significant number of prospects, including Derek Stepan and Oliver Ekman-Larsson (to run the PP) in the off season.
Goals:
To make the playoffs again.