The Vegas Golden Knights have made headlines once again, this time by bringing in two of the most talked-about names in hockey: winger Mitch Marner and goaltender Carter Hart. After months of swirling rumors and intense speculation, Hart’s official tryout deal with Vegas has sent shockwaves through the NHL community, reigniting debates over talent, redemption, and the future of the league’s goalie market. Yet, beneath the surface, this story is far more complex than a simple roster shake-up.

Hart’s journey to Vegas has been anything but ordinary, marked by controversy, legal battles, and a dramatic reinstatement that divided fans and insiders alike. Now, as he prepares for a fresh start alongside Marner—another high-profile addition from Toronto—the Golden Knights are betting big on a combination that could redefine their season. But questions remain: How will Hart’s past affect his future in Vegas? What does this mean for the team’s championship ambitions, and how will other franchises respond to the Knights’ bold moves?

With Hart’s eligibility and role still uncertain, and Marner’s impact yet to be fully seen, the hockey world is watching closely. The answers to these questions promise twists and revelations that no fan will want to miss.

Vegas Golden Knights winger Mitch Marner (#93) and goaltender Carter Hart as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers

Photo credit: HockeyPatrol/IMAGN

Carter Hart has officially agreed to a deal to join Mitch Marner and the Vegas Golden Knights after speculation.

Hart was acquitted as one of the five players involved in the 2018 Hockey Canada trial earlier this summer.

Having been considered the likeliest to recieve a deal in the league, Hart has been linked to Vegas as a likely option.

The Carolina Hurricanes were linked to Hart, as well as another player in the trial, Michael McLeod. The Hurricanes withdrew interest following public fan backlash over the rumored talks.

Hart was banned from the NHL, having broken the league’s character clause. The ban was overturned following the verdict and an apology made by Hart.

Carter Hart Officially Joins the Vegas Golden Knights

Carter Hart has signed a tryout deal with the Vegas Golden Knights, the team announced in a statement.

Following the reinstatement decision agreed on by the National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association, goaltender Carter Hart will be joining the Vegas Golden Knights organization.

The Golden Knights are aligned with the process and assessment the NHL and NHLPA made in their decision.

We remain committed to the core values that have defined our organization from its inception and expect that our players will continue to meet these standards moving forward.

Vegas netminder Adin Hill left Tuesday’s game against the Calgary Flames, but has returned since then.

Hart, 27, last played in the 2023-24 NHL season, appearing in 26 games for the Philadelphia Flyers. Hart had a 12-9-3 record with a 2.80GAA and a .906SV%.

A second round pick of the Philadelphia Flyers of the 2016 NHL Draft, Hart played six seasons with Philadelphia, appearing in 227 NHL games.

Hart is not eligible to play in the NHL until December 1st, and not eligible to play in the AHL until November 15th.

A Fresh Start and What It Means for the NHL Goalie Market

The signing of Carter Hart is not finalized, but probably closes off the overall goalie market.

Talent wise, Hart has the highest upside of all goaltenders, the only potential starter option with most of the available market being either players who have washed out of the league or older options looking for one more chance.

The Toronto Maple Leafs let go of former Leaf James Reimer after claiming Cayden Primeau off waivers, the 37-year-old having a 3.04 GAA and .896 SV% in 24 games, he’s considered a top remaining option.

Hart, if he signs, joins a Vegas team that has added a top talent in Mitch Marner from Toronto, evidence of the team’s demand of winning.

Vegas has faced prior controversy over the signing of CHL free agent Kai Uchacz, who was suspended for using a racial slur towards a teammate. Uchacz underwent sensitivity training and has spoken out against racism since then.

The Knights also faced controversy over the drafting of Trevor Connelly, who had posted on Snapchat a photo of a teammate posing with a fascist imagery.

Connelly had apologized for the incident and worked with racialized youth hockey groups since.

Carter Hart has not released a statement, although the NHL Players Association says that Hart has expressed remorse for his conduct related to the incident.

It is not clear where Hart will play if he does before his reinstatement, although he is not currently suspended from the ECHL.