Golden Knights Assign Carter Hart to AHL for Conditioning Stint

The Vegas Golden Knights have assigned goaltender Carter Hart to the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Henderson Silver Knights for a conditioning loan. This move follows the placement of Adin Hill on injured reserve, retroactive to October 20, 2023, according to a team announcement. Hart’s return marks his first competitive appearance since the start of the 2023-24 NHL season.

This decision comes in the wake of a challenging summer for Hart, who, along with four other players, was involved in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial. The players were found not guilty, but as part of a settlement between the NHL and the NHLPA, they were prohibited from signing contracts until October 15 and cannot return to NHL play until December 1. Consequently, it is anticipated that Hart’s conditioning stint will last until this date.

Over the past three seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers, Hart demonstrated consistency despite not replicating the high production levels of his first two years. From the beginning of the 2021-22 NHL season until his suspension in 2023-24, he recorded a 47-56-20 record, posting a save percentage of .906 and a goals-against average of 2.99. His prior performance suggests that he still possesses significant potential.

The Golden Knights have expressed confidence in Hart’s abilities, securing him with a two-year contract valued at $4 million on October 25, 2023. This investment illustrates their belief that Hart can contribute effectively to their roster moving forward.

In the meantime, Hill is recovering from a lower-body injury that has kept him off the ice for nearly a month. His expected return is projected within the coming weeks if his recovery proceeds as planned. This season, Hill has a record of 1-0-2 through five games, with a save percentage of .888 and a goals-against average of 2.73.

As Hart begins this conditioning period, his performance will be closely monitored, as many will be eager to see how he adapts after his time away from professional competition.