Title:
Carter Hart Joins Vegas Golden Knights After Lengthy Legal Journey, Signs PTO
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Carter Hart signs a professional tryout (PTO) with the Vegas Golden Knights following his reinstatement by the NHL and NHLPA, marking the conclusion of a 18-month absence due to legal issues.
Carter Hart’s NHL Comeback: Vegas Golden Knights Sign Goaltender to PTO
In a significant move for the Vegas Golden Knights, the team announced on Thursday that goaltender Carter Hart will be joining the organization. This development comes after the NHL and NHLPA reached an agreement on Hart’s reinstatement following a 18-month absence due to legal issues.
A Bumpy Road to Redemption
Hart, along with four other players, faced sexual assault charges following an alleged incident in London, Ont., in June 2018. Despite being found not guilty last July, Hart and his teammates remained suspended until December 1, with their NHL eligibility restored only on October 15.
“It’s been a long road” – Carter Hart
Speaking with reporters shortly after the announcement, Hart expressed his excitement about returning to the game:
“It’s been a long road to get back to this point, to get back to the game of hockey. The game that I love… I’ve learned a lot, I’ve grown a lot, and I’m just excited to move forward.”
A Warm Welcome from the Golden Knights’ Captain
Golden Knights captain Mark Stone welcomed Hart with open arms:
“Happy to welcome him to our team, to our family… I think we’ve created a pretty damn good culture here. A lot of character people in the locker room, a lot of people in the entire organization.”
From Suspension to PTO: Hart’s Path to Vegas
The 27-year-old netminder spent the last two seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers, posting a .906 save percentage and 2.80 goals-against average in 26 games during the 2023-24 season.
Hart’s Career Milestones
- Drafted by the Flyers in the second round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft
- 2018-19 Calder Trophy finalist after logging a .917 save percentage in 31 games played
- Three-time winner of the WHL’s Del Wilson Trophy (Goaltender of the Year) and two-time recipient of the CHL’s Goaltender of the Year award
Looking Ahead: Hart’s Future with the Golden Knights
With an official contract expected down the road, Hart will join the Golden Knights’ organization as they look to bolster their goaltending depth. With his extensive experience and proven talent, Hart could become a crucial addition to the team’s lineup as they continue to chase the Stanley Cup.
FAQs
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Why was Carter Hart suspended from the NHL?
Hart and four other players were suspended following sexual assault charges in 2018. Despite being found not guilty, they remained suspended until December 1, 2023. -
What is a professional tryout (PTO)?
A PTO is a contract that allows players to join an NHL team for training camp or a tryout without committing to a longer-term deal. -
How has Carter Hart performed in the NHL?
Throughout six NHL seasons, Hart has amassed a 96-93-29 record with a .906 save percentage and 2.94 goals-against average in 227 games played.
Did you know?
Before his NHL career, Carter Hart was an accomplished netminder in the WHL, where he won the Del Wilson Trophy for Goaltender of the Year three times and the CHL Goaltender of the Year award twice.
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Stay tuned to 247sports.news for more updates on Carter Hart’s journey with the Vegas Golden Knights and other exciting news from the NHL world. Leave your thoughts on Hart’s signing in the comments below!