During the 2023 NHL Offseason, the Tampa Bay Lightning signed forward Conor Sheary to a three-year, $6 million contract. With the Lightning needing more offensive production in their top nine, this move made sense.

However, Sheary’s first season with the Lightning was a rough one for the 32-year-old winger. In 57 games, the Massachusetts native recorded four goals, 15 points, and a minus-3. Due to his struggles offensively, Sheary was scratched multiple times throughout the season, including the entire playoffs. He also dealt with injury trouble, which did not help things.

While it was a shaky first year in Tampa Bay, there is apparent reason to believe that Sheary can bounce back in 2024-25. Just back in 2022-23 with the Washington Capitals, he had 15 goals and 37 points in 82 games. He also posted a 19-goal and 43-point campaign in 2021-22 with the Caps, so he can be an impactful secondary scorer when playing at his best. He has also had six seasons with at least 14 goals and has hit the 30-point mark in five different campaigns.

Given Sheary’s resume, it would not be surprising if his offense gets back up next season. This is especially so if he has a top-nine role with the Lightning, which appears to be quite possible given their current group.

It will be intriguing to see what kind of season Sheary has in 2024-25. He could be a nice piece of the Lightning’s forward group if he bounces back and regains his previous scoring touch.