Flames will expect more from Yegor Sharangovich after a disappointing season

Coming off a career year in 2023-24 in which Yegor Sharangovich scored 31 goals and 59 points, he was rewarded with a new five-year contract that carried hopes he would continue developing into one of the Calgary Flames’ top forwards for years to come.

After getting off to a late start last season due to an injury in a pre-season game, Sharangovich never really seemed to catch up. Consistency was the issue all year. He’d put together strong two- or three-game stretches where he contributed offensively and all over the ice, only to disappear for several games and look more like a burden than an asset.

Surely Sharangovich wants to prove to the Flames that he’s deserving of the hefty contract and capable of being the consistent producer we saw a couple of seasons ago. That’s why expectations heading into this season are high and hopes of a bounce back are almost expected. So what should we expect of him?

Meets expectations

Sharangovich is going to get opportunities to play from the coaching staff. He’ll likely bounce around the top nine until he finds some chemistry different line mates.

After being demoted from the top power-play unit a year ago, he’ll probably start this season on the second unit while trying to earn his way back. He had 17 power-play points two years ago — if he can replicate anything close to that, it would be a welcome boost to a struggling Flames power play.

He’ll also see plenty of time on the penalty kill. Remember, he finished just one point shy of the league lead in shorthanded points two seasons ago (seven). Providing solid defence on the PK along with chipping in a few extra short handed points can make the difference to winning or losing some games.

Production-wise, it would be encouraging to see him flirt with the 50-point mark, ideally split fairly evenly between goals and assists. He has the shot to fool goaltenders, but he needs to use it more. Last year he had just 128 shots, his lowest total aside from his 54-game rookie season (114).

A consistent approach in all areas should help Sharangovich re-establish himself as a reliable forward for Calgary. That means steady linemates and contributions on both sides of the puck. A healthy, productive pre-season could help him get off to the strong start he needs.

Below expectations

Anything short of his first season in Calgary will likely fall into this category. That year, he played well and earned his contract. Last season, he didn’t back it up.

If Sharangovich once again fails to make a consistent impact, he risks losing his place in the lineup — and potentially his spot in Calgary altogether.

You could call his first season an anomaly, as he had averaged only about 30 points otherwise. But that isn’t what he was brought in to do. The Flames need top-six forwards who can score 30-plus goals, not depth players producing third-line numbers. If he looks invisible again, it will be a major disappointment.

Above expectations

The talent and potential are there. Sharangovich has a lethal shot — he just needs to use it more. Best-case scenario, he comes out of the gate firing, looking confident with the puck and earning the trust of his coaches and teammates. In that case, he could even challenge Matt Coronato for top-line minutes and a role on the first power-play unit.

If he plays his best hockey, could he push 40 goals? Even 30 would be huge for this team. Add 30 assists to that, and the Flames suddenly have another 60- to 70-point player, something only Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri achieved last season.

Sharangovich is a key piece. With his involvement on both special teams, he plays a huge role in the Flames’ success. A healthy, confident Sharangovich deepens the lineup and helps turn close games into wins.