Carter Hart PTO to Two-Year Contract with Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights have converted Carter Hart’s professional tryout into a two-year, $4 million contract. The deal carries an annual cap hit of $2 million, and Hart, 27, has been away from NHL action since the 2023-24 season. He has reported to the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights and will remain there until December 1, when he becomes eligible to play in NHL games under reinstatement conditions.

This signing follows Hart’s acquittal on sexual assault charges from an incident in 2018 involving Canada’s World Junior team. After a July 24 verdict and league review, Hart and the other players were cleared of criminal charges but faced league-imposed conditions delaying contract signings until October 15 and game participation until December 1.

The two-year agreement provides Hart stability and a path back to the NHL, with the organization emphasizing alignment with league processes and core values. Hart previously had a $3.98 million cap hit with the Philadelphia Flyers before his contract expired in 2024. The contract structure includes options and protections, offering Vegas a low-risk investment in a goalie who has shown capability at the NHL level (career: 96-93-29 in 227 games).

Hart’s immediate impact on the NHL roster remains uncertain given Vegas’s existing goaltending tandem. His performance with Henderson will influence any potential call-ups. In the 2023-24 season with Philadelphia, Hart went 12-9-3 with a .906 save percentage and 2.80 GAA in 26 games. His career NHL stats stand at a .906 save percentage and 2.94 GAA.

Hart’s development path at Henderson will be closely watched as the organization balances competition and readiness for potential NHL duties. The December 1st eligibility date is a key milestone for his reintegration into professional hockey.