Could the Rangers Revive Conor Sheary’s NHL Career?

The 33-year-old is out to prove that he has enough left in the tank to contribute at the NHL level. Given his history with Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan, he’ll likely be given every chance to make the opening night roster.

Sheary scored in the second period of Sunday’s preseason opener. He was sprung on a breakaway by Juuso Parssinen and beat New Jersey Devils goaltender Nico Daws with a top-shelf wrist shot. The visiting Rangers went on to secure a 5-3 victory at Prudential Center. 

The 5-foot-8 wing was engaged and active throughout the exhibition. He skated on the left wing of Parssinen and was joined by Gabe Perreault, who also put in an impressive performance. Sheary logged 16:53 time on ice with three shots, one hit and a plus-two rating.

Together, Sheary and Sullivan captured back-to-back Stanley Cup championships for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017. Sheary made a sizable impact in the 2016 Stanley Cup playoffs as a rookie, notching 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 23 postseason games.

Sheary notably scored the overtime-winning goal in Game 2 of the 2016 Stanley Cup Final.

The Rangers have remodeled their roster to play a more in-your-face style. Sheary fits the characteristics that the Blueshirts are looking for in a veteran who can still be productive while being a positive example to youngsters. He is an energy guy who is aggressive on the forecheck and isn’t afraid to get his nose dirty.

Sheary knows Sullivan’s system from soup to nuts. That will give him a leg up on youthful competition attempting to make the Rangers’ regular season roster.

If Sullivan can get Sheary to turn back the clock, the experienced wing could serve as both a mentor and a useful bottom-six forward.