Carter Hart Returns to NHL Ice After 23-Month Absence: “It’s Been a Long Road”
For the first time since early 2023, Carter Hart is back in an NHL crease - and for the 25-year-old goaltender, it’s more than just another game.
Hart is set to make his return tonight for the Vegas Golden Knights, who signed him to a two-year, $4 million deal in late October after he was cleared to return to play by the NHL. That clearance followed his acquittal in the 2018 Hockey Canada case, and the league officially reinstated him as eligible for NHL action starting December 1.
Now, after nearly two years away from the league, Hart’s comeback begins at T-Mobile Arena against the Chicago Blackhawks.
A New Chapter in Vegas
Hart’s path back to the NHL has been anything but typical. Following a leave of absence from the Philadelphia Flyers in January 2024, he’d been away from professional hockey for nearly 23 months. But after spending some time with the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights - Vegas’ affiliate - Hart says he’s feeling ready.
“I feel good,” Hart said ahead of Tuesday’s game. “It was nice to go down to Henderson and get some game action.
I mean, I’ve just been practicing for a year and a half. So it’s nice to get into a real game.”
That stint in the AHL wasn’t just about shaking off rust - it gave Hart a chance to face real-time pressure and readjust to the rhythm of live play.
“A few games down there, different scenarios that you can’t replicate in practice,” he added. “The guys down there - awesome players and staff. Everybody was really good, and it was nice just to play.”
Facing the Blackhawks
Hart’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Golden Knights, who are dealing with injuries in net - most notably to Adin Hill. That’s left Vegas leaning on a tandem of Akira Schmid and Hart as they navigate a tough Western Conference schedule.
Tonight, Hart takes the crease against a Blackhawks squad that’s shown signs of growth. Chicago enters the matchup 11-9-5, while Vegas sits at 11-6-8. The Blackhawks may not be a powerhouse yet, but they’ve been more competitive this season - and they’ll test Hart early.
“It’s Been a Long Road”
This return isn’t just about stats or standings for Hart - it’s personal. Speaking to the media back in October, Hart reflected on the emotional and mental toll of his time away from the game.
“It’s been a long road to get back to this point, to get back to playing the game of hockey, a game that I love,” he said. “I’ve been out of the game for a year and a half now.
I’ve learned a lot, I’ve grown a lot. I’m just excited to move forward.”
That growth - both on and off the ice - could shape this next chapter of his career. And in Vegas, he’s joining a locker room that’s already embraced him.
A Supportive Room
Golden Knights star Jack Eichel spoke highly of Hart’s addition to the team, emphasizing the strength of the organization’s culture and the support Hart will receive as he reintegrates into the league.
“I think it’s great,” Eichel said. “We’re looking forward to having him, and it’s a great opportunity for him to get to play hockey again. I think with the people we have here... it’s going to be great for him to be able to do that again.”
Eichel’s comments echo a broader sentiment in the Vegas room: that Hart’s return is not just a hockey story, but a human one. And that as far as the Golden Knights are concerned, he’s one of their own now.
What Comes Next
Hart enters this next phase of his career with a 96-93-29 NHL record and a .906 save percentage. Those numbers reflect a goalie who’s been through ups and downs, but also one who’s shown the ability to steal games and be a difference-maker.
Tonight’s game won’t define his future - but it will mark a significant milestone in a journey that’s been anything but easy.
For Hart, it’s not just about stopping pucks. It’s about reclaiming his place in the game he loves. And for Vegas, it’s about giving him the chance to do just that.