Sharangovich Represents as Only Belarusian on Opening Night Rosters

Last season Devils forward Yegor Sharangovich's play in training camp gave New Jersey no choice but to put him on the opening night roster. The Belarusian scored in his second ever NHL game, an overtime game winner against the Boston Bruins, and from there a fan favorite was born.
Through 54 games, Sharangovich scored 16 goals and had 14 assists for 30 points in his rookie season. Two of his goals were on the power play and three were game winners. Coming into his second season, Sharangovich is the only player from Belarus on an opening night roster throughout the NHL.
"It's exciting and I'm honored to represent my country," Sharangovich said. "There's a couple guys coming soon, maybe a year, maybe two because we have six players in the AHL, a couple in the CHL, and they should come (to the NHL) soon."
In addition to the other Belarusian players close to making it to the NHL, Sharangovich can impact the next generation of hockey players.
"It creates a lot of hope for other kids. There may be one, but if there's one, kids in his country will see it, they'll want to be the next Sharangovich," head coach Lindy Ruff said. "We saw what impact he had with our team … and hopefully he builds off of that year and has an even better year for us."
"I'm proud that I made it and I hope that they think they can too."