Goaltender Carter Hart has signed with the Vegas Golden Knights, marking a significant comeback for the player. This move follows his acquittal in a sexual assault case that involved several of his former teammates from the 2018 Canada World Junior hockey team. Vegas announced the agreement with undisclosed terms on Thursday.
Carter Hart Joins Golden Knights
Hart’s signing comes after the court found him and his fellow players not guilty of the charges brought against them. Those players included Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton. As per league regulations, Hart and the others are not eligible to participate in games until December 1.
Background of the Case
- The charges stemmed from a 2018 incident in London, Ontario.
- A judge declared that the prosecution could not provide sufficient evidence.
- Allegations were deemed lacking in credibility, leading to the acquittal.
The NHL initiated its investigation in early 2022 when the allegations were publicly disclosed. Despite the legal outcome, the league labeled the players’ off-ice conduct as “deeply troubling and unacceptable.” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman remarked that individual teams would make their own decisions regarding the players’ status and reintegration.
Players’ Careers Post-Acquittal
Carter Hart, at 27 years old, is looking for a fresh start after six seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers. The organization decided not to retain Hart, prompting him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
- Michael McLeod signed a three-year contract with a team in the KHL.
- Alex Formenton is currently playing in Switzerland but has not returned to the NHL since 2022.
The Vegas Golden Knights released a statement regarding Hart’s signing, affirming their commitment to upholding the values that have defined their organization. They expressed confidence that players would align with these standards moving forward.
This signing marks a pivotal moment in Hart’s career and reflects the NHL’s navigation of complex issues surrounding player conduct and accountability. As discussions about moral integrity continue, Hart will have the opportunity to prove himself anew within the league.
