Carter Hart to the Oilers: new details have emerged
One major decision is keeping Carter Hart off NHL rosters, and it could affect teams like the Oilers for weeks
Despite being found not guilty in court, goaltender Carter Hart still isn't expected to return to the NHL anytime soon.
And if fans in Edmonton were hoping he might be the solution to the Oilers' goaltending questions, they'll have to look elsewhere.
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers have completely ruled out signing the former Philadelphia Flyers netminder.
Hart, 26, remains an unrestricted free agent after being declared ineligible by the NHL as they continue reviewing his case tied to the 2018 Hockey Canada investigation.
The NHL is still reviewing Carter Hart's status, but teams like the Oilers are steering clear for now
Hart last played for the Flyers on January 20, 2024, and hasn't returned to NHL action since.
Even though he was found not guilty of sexual assault by Justice Maria Carroccia earlier this month, the league has not yet cleared him, or the four other players involved, for reinstatement.
During a recent B/R Open Ice livestream, Frank Seravalli said:
«I was told that Carter Hart is a non-starter for the Edmonton Oilers, and, beyond that, he's a non-starter for everyone right now.»
League tension with NHLPA could slow Hart's potential return to the ice
The NHLPA has publicly objected to the NHL's decision to label Hart and the others as ineligible, but the league has stated it will take time to review all aspects of the case before a ruling.
Meanwhile, overseas interest may be growing. KHL GM Alexey Sopin, who signed Michael McLeod last season, told Championat:
«I think that the league itself will not delay this decision, and in the near future we will find out everything.»
Whether Hart returns to the NHL or chooses another path, I think this situation shows how difficult the league's next steps will be as pressure builds from both the union and the public.
You can read the full report from The Hockey News here.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 31 | 63 ANSWERS Carter Hart to the Oilers: new details have emerged Do you think Carter Hart should be allowed to return to the NHL this season? | ||
| Yes | 35 | 55.6 % |
| No | 28 | 44.4 % |
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