Carter Hart Set for Golden Knights Debut Against Blackhawks Tuesday
Goaltender Carter Hart is poised to make his NHL debut with the Vegas Golden Knights against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday night. Hart was recalled by the Golden Knights on Sunday after a league suspension that ended Monday. This marks his first chance to compete at the NHL level in nearly two years.
Carter Hart’s Journey Back to the NHL
Hart’s suspension followed sexual assault charges, from which he and four other former members of Canada’s World Juniors team were found not guilty in July. The NHL suspended Hart and the others after determining their behavior did not align with the league’s moral integrity standards.
Following Monday’s practice, Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy did not confirm Hart’s start for Tuesday. However, Hart expressed optimism about his chances. “Preparation is everything,” he stated. “I’ve done everything I can to be prepared, and I’ll be prepared if I get the call tomorrow.”
Recent Performances and Conditioning
- Hart completed a conditioning loan with the Henderson Silver Knights, the Golden Knights’ AHL affiliate.
- During his time in Henderson, he played three games, securing one win and two losses.
- He allowed nine goals on 56 shots, achieving a save percentage of .839.
Coach Cassidy remarked that reports from Henderson indicated Hart played well, despite some unfortunate late-game goals. He emphasized the importance of live game experience to regain form.
Milestone Return
If Hart plays on Tuesday, it will be exactly 22 months and 12 days since his last NHL game on January 20, 2024, for the Philadelphia Flyers. Hart signed a two-year, $4 million contract with the Golden Knights in October.
“It just felt good to be playing again,” Hart remarked about his recent games. He acknowledged the inevitability of nerves but expressed confidence in his ability to manage them. “Those nerves turn into excitement,” he added. “At the end of the day, it’s a game I’ve played my whole life.”
The Golden Knights’ Goalkeeping Situation
The Golden Knights are currently searching for stability in goal, as they have been without starting goalie Adin Hill due to a lower-body injury. The team has a record of 6-6-6 during his absence, with a team save percentage of .876, ranking among the lowest in the NHL.
- Akira Schmid and rookie Carl Lindbom have split goaltending duties in Hill’s absence.
- Lindbom was reassigned to the AHL, setting the stage for a goalie rotation involving Hart and Schmid.
With a busy schedule ahead, including a five-game road trip after Tuesday’s matchup, Cassidy stated, “Carter has waited a long time to play, so he’s definitely going to get his share of starts.” The team is prepared to be patient as Hart shakes off the rust from his extended absence.
