Carter Hart To Receive Interest from Multiple Teams

The hockey world is buzzing with anticipation as Carter Hart prepares for what could be the most scrutinized comeback in recent NHL memory. After 20 months away from the game, the 27-year-old netminder is poised to sign with a new organization, and multiple franchises are reportedly circling like vultures around a fresh opportunity.

This isn’t just another free agent signing. This is a career resurrection story that has general managers across the league weighing risk versus reward with the precision of a calculator.

The Timeline That Changed Everything

Hart’s world came crashing down in January 2024. One moment, he was Philadelphia’s franchise goaltender; the next, he was taking an indefinite leave of absence as legal troubles mounted. His last NHL appearance tells the whole story – a brutal 7-4 loss to Colorado where he surrendered five goals on just 15 shots before getting the hook.

That January 20th disaster feels like a lifetime ago now. Hart disappeared from hockey completely, watching from afar as the Flyers moved on without him. When his contract expired, Philadelphia didn’t even bother with a qualifying offer. The message was crystal clear: this chapter was over.

But chapters have a way of continuing when you least expect them.

Which Teams Need Carter Hart Most?

The goaltending market is always hungry, and Hart represents something rare – proven NHL experience at a potentially bargain price. Several franchises could use his services, but the fit has to be perfect.

Columbus Blue Jackets – Elvis Merzlikins has been inconsistent, and the organization needs stability between the pipes. Hart could provide veteran leadership while competing for starts in a low-pressure environment. Columbus isn’t expected to contend, making it an ideal landing spot for a player seeking redemption.

Buffalo Sabres – Despite having multiple goaltenders on the roster, none have grabbed the starting job by the throat. Hart could slide in and immediately compete for meaningful minutes. The Sabres desperately need someone to steal games, and Carter Hart demonstrated that ability during his prime with the Flyers.

The Edmonton Oilers, despite Hart’s hometown connections, appear unlikely. Reports suggest he’s prioritizing U.S.-based teams, effectively eliminating his childhood dream destination.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Carter Hart’s NHL resume speaks volumes about his potential impact. Through 227 career games, all with Philadelphia, he posted a 2.94 GAA and .906 save percentage. Those aren’t Vezina Trophy numbers, but they represent solid NHL goaltending from someone who carried heavy workloads on mediocre teams.

His peak seasons showed glimpses of elite potential. The 2019-20 campaign saw Hart emerge as Philadelphia’s clear number one, providing stability the franchise hadn’t enjoyed in years. That version of Hart could still exist beneath the rust and uncertainty.

The Fresh Start Factor

Chris Johnston’s reporting makes one thing abundantly clear – Carter Hart wants nothing to do with returning to Philadelphia. The Flyers represent his past, complete with all the baggage that entails. He’s seeking a clean slate, somewhere he can rebuild both his reputation and his game.

This desire for a fresh start actually works in his favor. Teams know they’re getting a motivated player with something to prove. Hart understands the stakes. One more failure could end his NHL dreams permanently.

Contract Expectations and Reality

Expect Carter Hart to sign a multi-year deal, likely two or three seasons, according to league sources. His previous $3.979 million salary seems like ancient history now. This contract will be about opportunity, not money.

Smart general managers recognize the value proposition here. If Hart rediscovers his form, they’ve found a starting goaltender at below-market rates. If he struggles, the financial commitment won’t cripple their salary cap flexibility.

The Conditioning Challenge

The path back won’t be smooth. Hart hasn’t faced a competitive shot in nearly two years. His body needs time to remember NHL reflexes, his mind needs to process game speed again. The league’s reinstatement terms provide a month for practice and conditioning before AHL assignment becomes possible.

That timeline suggests Carter Hart won’t see NHL action until late 2025 or early 2026. Teams signing him are making a long-term investment, not expecting immediate returns.