Golden Knights Assign Carter Hart to AHL for Conditioning Stint

The Vegas Golden Knights have assigned goaltender Carter Hart to the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights for a conditioning loan, according to a team announcement. This move comes as part of a roster adjustment following the placement of Adin Hill on injured reserve, likely retroactive to October 20, 2023. Hart’s return marks his first professional appearance since the start of the 2023-24 NHL season.

Hart, along with four other players, was involved in a high-profile sexual assault trial during the summer and was found not guilty. As part of the disciplinary actions agreed upon by the NHL and the NHLPA, these players were prohibited from signing contracts until October 15, 2023, and are barred from returning to NHL play until December 1, 2023. Consequently, Hart’s conditioning stint is expected to last until that date.

Despite not matching the impressive statistics of his early NHL seasons, Hart has shown consistency over the past three years with the Philadelphia Flyers. From the beginning of the 2021-22 season until his suspension, he posted a record of 47 wins, 56 losses, and 20 overtime losses, with a save percentage of .906 and a goals-against average of 2.99.

The Golden Knights remain optimistic about Hart’s potential, having signed him to a two-year, $4 million contract on October 25, 2023. The organization believes he still has much to contribute as they navigate the challenges of the season.

Meanwhile, Hill has been sidelined for nearly a month due to a lower-body injury but is expected to return to practice in the coming weeks if his recovery progresses as anticipated. In the early part of the season, Hill recorded a 1-0-2 record through five games, with a save percentage of .888 and a goals-against average of 2.73.

As the Golden Knights look to solidify their roster, Hart’s performance during this conditioning loan will be closely monitored. His return could be crucial for the team’s ambitions, especially as they aim for a strong showing in the NHL following a challenging start to the season.