HC Fribourg-Gottéron still has to fill one spot in net, two on defense, and eight on offense for the upcoming season. According to La Liberté, there are, however, a lot fewer spots actually available for forwards than it seems.
Three import player spots are up for grabs, one or two juniors will receive a chance with the main squad and Nathan Marchon would fill a spot if he signs his extension. Dubé has not yet made a decision about Andreï Bykov and Matthias Rossi, whose contracts are expiring. The latter might explore his options though.
As for the young player section, Kevin Nicolet is expected to sign a deal with HC Fribourg-Gottéron soon. Dominik Binias and Gaëtan Jobin, on the other hand, will need to convince the team manager of their qualities. Regarding Jobin, Dubé is trying to find a Swiss League spot so that he can get in some games.
For the import faction, Dubé is looking to have the same constellation as this year: two defenders, two wingers, and two centermen, but is in no rush to make any decisions. The only one committed beyond this season is Marcus Sörensen. While David Desharnais is going to retire, Ryan Gunderson would like to continue his career and is a candidate. Juuso Vainio's contract has an option for another season, but Dubé wants to wait until Christmas to decide on the matter.
On defense, the team manager states that they have an established top six, but he would like to gain some quality and depth. Contract-wise, Benjamin Chavaillaz and Joël Scheidegger both have expiring deals and might not be back.
In net, things depend on Reto Berra's recovery. In case it takes longer than the three anticipated months, Dubé hints at the possibility of signing an import netminder. The backup position is also up for debate. Connor Hughes is only signed until the end of the season and might get better offers elsewhere which Fribourg cannot match, as Dubé has a specific budget for the position.
