Agree with Rufus in that I take much more positives away from this season. Let's face it the talent on this team is all from the freshmen and sophomore classes. Our depth was an issue from the start and particularly after we lost Higgins. When you have 4 forwards in your line-up night in and night out who can't be counted upon to put anything on the scoresheet you already start with a disadvantage. Should Shore stay, and let's hope he does, and some of the freshmen actually pan out, giving us 3 classes in a row, I expect improvement in our offensive production. Our defense should be even better next year. We lose Brice, but pick up two promising, and big freshmen who both are known for hitting and winning puck battles.
Naturally the big question mark is in net. This position has been a weakness since Bishop left. Ouellette this year and Sullivan his sophomore year were both consistent, but neither was spectacular. Though Marty had his moments this year when he won some games. So let's hope between Morris, Nugnes and Romeo that we find a very solid starter and back-up, or possibly a tandem.
I think we all liked the style Maine played much more this year. Aggressive forecheck as opposed to passive trapping team that sat back. But down the stretch Maine showed their inexperience in important games, and no question they will have to figure out how to win on the road next year.
We are very solid up the middle next year with Shore, Swavely, Brown and Higgins. Could see Higgins centering a 4th line that will be getting a lot of ice time defending #1 line of other teams. And when you add Leen, Lomberg, Byron, and Morgan you've got 9 strong forwards. We'll see if adding Tegeler and the freshmen to Merchant, Cerretani, Campbell and Henke generates some offense. I do expect Pecararo to make an immediate impact and many are high on Vesey. Next year is critical to getting back to the Garden and the NCAA's as we likely lose Shore and possibly Hutton at the end of next season. But I am much more optimistic about the future. Never expected this team to get to achieve either of those goals this year, but they teased us for awhile and that was nice.
Expectations amongst Black Bear nation will be a bit higher next year, so let's hope they live up to them!
