Sheary, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and fan favorite in Washington, inked a three-year deal with an AAV of $2 million.
It was a busy free agency weekend for GM Julien BriseBois and staff, starting with their first signing on Saturday. Conor Sheary, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, inked a three-year deal with an AAV of $2 million. The 31-year-old winger was a fan favorite in Washington, playing in all 82 games last season. He ranked fourth on the team with 15 goals and fifth with 37 points.
Sheary was utilized primarily in the middle six at even strength in Washington, but got long spells on the top line. He registered a career-high seven power-play points during the 2022-23 season. He also became a regular on the penalty kill, posting a career-high 138:09 of ice time shorthanded.
"I think a lot of guys in the league have Tampa circled just because of their success in the last 10 seasons or so," said Sheary.
"Their sustained success has always been something that I wanted to be a part of. I think my game has been pretty consistent throughout my career. I can chip in offensively where I can. I use my speed as much as I can. Kind of relentless on the forecheck in creating turnovers and that kind of thing.”
GM Julien BriseBois was drawn to similar characteristics. "Conor is a well-established top nine forward at the NHL level," said BriseBois.
"He can play up and down your lineup, either wing. He has a history of playing with elite players, both in Pittsburgh where he won two Stanley Cups and played with Sidney Crosby and Geno Malkin, and more recently playing in Washington, where he got to play with Alex Ovechkin. Not everyone has the ability to play with elite players like that, but Conor has proven that he can do that.”
"He can kill penalties. He can play on the power play. Super versatile player that coaches are going to really enjoy having on the team because of all the flexibility he will provide our roster. Also comes in with a winning pedigree."
Sheary feels his versatility gives the Lightning a chance to plug him in wherever they need him. "Whether it's special teams, bottom six or top six," said Sheary.
“I think they play with a lot of speed and that's a big asset of mine, so I'm looking forward to bringing that to Tampa."