Carter Hart is embarking on a new chapter in his NHL career as he officially joins the Vegas Golden Knights organization. The announcement came on Thursday, revealing that Hart has signed a professional tryout offer that is expected to transition into a full NHL contract.
This opportunity arises as Hart, along with four other players involved in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial, became eligible to sign with NHL teams starting on Wednesday. As part of the Golden Knights, Hart will have the chance to compete for a spot in their roster, with eligibility to play commencing on December 1. The Golden Knights are considered strong contenders for the Stanley Cup this season, heightening the excitement surrounding Hart’s potential contribution to the team.
Hart is set to face his former team, the Philadelphia Flyers, on December 11. They will meet again on January 19, 2024, as the clubs continue to create narratives surrounding their matches.
In July, Hart and his co-defendants were found not guilty of charges stemming from a 2018 incident in London, Ontario, allowing him to continue his professional career. Meanwhile, Flyers general manager Danny Briere indicated earlier that Hart’s agent had communicated a lack of interest in a return to Philadelphia, signaling a mutual agreement for a fresh start for both parties post-trial.
Hart’s journey in Philadelphia included five consecutive season openers from 2019 to 2023. However, following a difficult year that led to his indefinite leave of absence from the team in January 2024, the Flyers opted not to issue him a qualifying offer in June, making him an unrestricted free agent. As he joins the Golden Knights, both Hart and the organization are looking forward to a promising future, with Hart hopeful to regain his form and continue making a mark in the NHL.