Major controversy sparks regarding Mike Sullivan's latest lineup change involving Conor Sheary
Conor Sheary finally broke through Saturday afternoon, and while his first goal of the season brought relief, the discussion around it didn't end on the ice.
After 27 games without a finish, Sheary scored the third-period equalizer against the Colorado Avalanche, a moment head coach Mike Sullivan framed as both earned and overdue.
Sullivan went on to note that Sheary has «done a lot of really good things» this year, highlighting his forecheck, structure and detail work. The coach made it clear the only missing piece was the goal itself, and he hopes Saturday's tally gives Sheary a boost of confidence.
"I think Connor's done a lot of really good things for us this year. The only thing that's been missing is just the finish. So I'm hoping this goal he gets tonight will give him a boost of confidence. He has shown an ability to score in this league in a number of different places. If he can chip in with a goal here and there for us, it certainly helps us with all the other things that he brings to the table.»
New York Rangers fans not pleased with Mike Sullivan's latest move
Fans see another layer here. Sheary's goal came just hours after Sullivan promoted him into the top-six, a decision that sparked frustration across social media. Many believed the Rangers found their rhythm with previous line combinations, especially during recent wins over Dallas and Ottawa.
Not a lot of cheers when Conor Sheary is announced in the starting lineup.
Here's what just a fans had to say:
However, Sheary rewarded Sullivan's faith by attacking space, staying inside pressure and finishing with precision. The coach emphasized that the staff values how Sheary helps drives shifts even when the scoring touch isn't there, and Saturday offered proof of concept.
Previously on NY Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 6 | 88 ANSWERS Major controversy sparks regarding Mike Sullivan's latest lineup change involving Conor Sheary Do you agree with Mike Sullivan continuing to give Conor Sheary top-six opportunities? | ||
| Yes | 38 | 43.2 % |
| No | 50 | 56.8 % |
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