Lightning, Kraken Place Veterans Sheary, Veleno on Unconditional Waivers

The Tampa Bay Lightning have placed forward Conor Sheary on unconditional waivers to terminate the final year of his contract, freeing up $2 million in salary cap space. Sheary, a 10-year NHL veteran and two-time Stanley Cup champion with Pittsburgh, played only five games with the Lightning this season, spending most of his time with their AHL affiliate, Syracuse Crunch, where he posted 20 goals and 41 assists in 59 games. The Lightning initially signed Sheary hoping he would add scoring depth, but injuries and team decisions limited his role, and he spent much of last season and this one in the minors. By agreeing to the contract termination, Sheary aims to become an unrestricted free agent and sign a new deal, likely closer to the league minimum, to reestablish his NHL value. The move also provides the Lightning with increased cap flexibility to make additional roster moves, including signing prospects and minor adjustments. Sheary’s departure marks the end of his tenure in Tampa, where he totaled four goals and 15 points in 62 games over two seasons.