I know the team has made some strides to improve the roster, in both the offensive side of the puck, as well as the defensive side. Adding back Vermette and Michalek was important, since they know the Dave Tippett system, and love playing here. The addition of Brad Richardson was a good move to add more size, and tenacity to the lineup. The Steve Downie signing was not on my favorite list, but he will fill the tough guy role, along with Kyle Chipchura.
On the defensive side, Michalek is almost a second goalie, and will fill the need for a right hand shot on the blue-line.