Two-Time Cup Champion Making His Case in Rangers Preseason
Preseason is officially underway for the New York Rangers, and it was quite a good start after yesterday's 5-3 against the Devils. While it may just be preseason, yesterday afternoon's matchup gave fans a nice look at a few players fighting for a spot on the roster. Predictions have been made on what this potential roster may look like, but until opening night on October 7th, it's still anyone's game. A fine first goal by Gabe Perreault gave the Blueshirts a nice start to the game, and a strong push by Matt Rempe helped lead to their third goal, but a certain veteran has caught the eyes of a few fans.
Signing a professional tryout agreement with New York this summer, veteran Conor Sheary shouldn't go unnoticed and has as big a chance as anyone to be considered for a spot. After Tampa Bay agreed on a termination for his final year, the two-time Stanley Cup champion has an opportunity for some redemption in the NHL. A majority of his time last season was spent with the Syracuse Crunch, meaning Sheary looks to prove himself still worthy of playing in the NHL. Having been a part of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cups, Sheary and Mike Sullivan have some history; it would make sense he'd be highly considered an option opening night. Having history is one thing, but does the veteran winger have what it takes to secure a spot in MSG?
Sheary had himself a pretty goal against New Jersey yesterday, beating New Jersey goaltender Nico Daws on a breakaway. Not only that, but his line stood out quite a lot during the game, skating with Gabe Perreault and Juuso Parssinen. Winning his first Stanley Cup as a rookie, Sheary earned himself four goals and six assists in that 2016 run, one of which was an overtime goal in Game Two. One year later, he went on to score two goals and five assists and win his second consecutive Stanley Cup in Pittsburgh. Sheary is a man who can bring energy and aggression to the Blueshirts. Will he fit right in?
If there's anything Ranger fans have seen in the last year, it's a complete remodeling of this roster. With a strong top six, a questionable bottom six follows, which Sheary may be able to fix with his experience. If the 33-year-old can continue to produce like he used to, his role down there may be just what the bottom six needs. Not only does Sheary understand the system Mike Sullivan will bring this season, but the experience he can bring to the young forwards may be helpful when looking beyond just this upcoming season. Opening night is only a few weeks away, and while fans may prefer many other options to fill this roster, Conor Sheary is definitely the kind of player who deserves consideration.
