Goaltender Carter Hart, a member of Canada’s 2018 world junior hockey team who was recently cleared of sexual assault charges, is set to join the Vegas Golden Knights. The NHL franchise confirmed the signing in a statement on Thursday, revealing that Hart has inked a professional tryout agreement, although specific terms were not disclosed.
While Hart remains under NHL suspension until December 1, he was permitted to secure a spot with a team starting Wednesday while awaiting reinstatement. Voicing his excitement, Hart expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to demonstrate his true character to the community and showcase his passion for the game of hockey. He emphasized his eagerness to move forward after a year and a half hiatus from the sport, during which he reflected and grew personally.
Hart, along with four other players from the 2018 Canadian world junior team, faced sexual assault charges following an incident after a celebratory gala. However, all five players, including Hart, were acquitted on July 24 after a trial in London, Ont. Hart is the first among the group to secure a deal with an NHL team, while another player has signed with a Russian team and a third is pursuing his career in Switzerland.
The NHL commissioner, Gary Bettman, emphasized that each team must independently decide on the players’ future based on established rules and values. The league had previously expressed disappointment in the players’ conduct, stating that although not criminal, their actions fell short of NHL standards. Despite the acquittals, the players were subject to re-signing restrictions and a delayed eligibility to play NHL games.
Hart, who hails from Sherwood Park, Alta., spent his earlier NHL career with the Philadelphia Flyers, accumulating significant statistics over six seasons. He took a leave from the Flyers in January 2024 before becoming an unrestricted free agent after the 2023-24 season.
Dan Mason, a sports management professor, remarked that Hart’s signing with an NHL team was expected given his prior performance in the league. Mason noted that Hart landing with a U.S.-based team was not surprising, as it offered a fresh start with less media attention compared to Canadian markets. The Golden Knights, regarded as top contenders for the Stanley Cup, have been rotating goalies this season, with both showing mixed performances in the early games.