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Carter Hart Takes 'Indefinite Leave of Absence;' Cites Personal Reasons

Originally posted on Inside The Rink | By Maria Kaffes | Last updated Jan 23, 2024 7:31 PM ET

Philadelphia Flyers Goaltender Carter Hart will be stepping back from the Orange and Black for an unknown amount of time, according to General Manager Daniel Briere. The statement was released today at 4:00 p.m. EST.

“The club will have no further comment at this time,” stated Briere.
@NHLFlyers on X

First and foremost, the hope is that Hart is okay mentally and physically. He is human first and an athlete second.

Per Philadelphia Flyers General Manager, Daniel Briere:

"Carter Hart has requested and been granted an indefinite leave of absence citing personal reasons. The club will have no further comment at this time." pic.twitter.com/jC1GyxcKWR
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) January 23, 2024

From a hockey lens, this is a blow to the Flyers’ goalie tandem. Throughout the 2023-2024 season, Hart averaged 2.80 goals against per game, posted a .906 save percentage, and earned one shutout. His record is 12-9-3. The hope is that Sam Ersson can continue to play at a high-caliber level. He is currently averaging 2.36 goals against per game, holding a .909 save percentage, and has earned three shutouts.

In the wake of this news, Cal Petersen has been recalled from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms to serve as backup for Ersson. Peterson’s holds a 5-8-3 record with the Phantoms. He also has a .890 save percentage and is averaging 3.29 goals against per game.

Additionally, Owen Tippett has been placed on injury reserve, per @NHLFlyers on X. His absence will surely be felt. The right-winger has 18 goals and 12 assists, totaling 30 points this season.

Transaction: We have placed forward Owen Tippett on Injured Reserve and have recalled goaltender Cal Petersen from the @LVPhantoms (AHL). pic.twitter.com/vbyP1eLnbM
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) January 23, 2024