The NHL rumor mill is spinning once again, and this time, it’s Carter Hart at the center of attention—his long-awaited return to the league is closer than ever, but the details remain shrouded in mystery.

After months away from the ice due to off-ice issues, the former Philadelphia Flyers goaltender is suddenly drawing interest from several teams, with speculation reaching a fever pitch about where he’ll land next.

While whispers of disinterest from over ten franchises have surfaced, one team seems to be emerging as the clear frontrunner, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster signing that could shake up the Western Conference.

Reports from trusted insiders have hinted at negotiations and contract figures, but the final outcome is still up in the air, leaving fans and analysts alike eagerly refreshing their feeds for the latest updates.

Could Hart’s next move be the missing piece for a Stanley Cup contender, or will lingering doubts about his potential hold him back?

As October unfolds and free agency heats up, the anticipation surrounding Hart’s future continues to grow—making this one of the most compelling NHL comeback stories of the year. The full truth behind his next chapter is just waiting to be revealed.

Carter Hart with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Photo credit: Daily Faceoff

Carter Hart’s return to the NHL is a matter of when, not if, and now, it appears as though he’s set to join the contending Vegas Golden Knights.

After quite some time due to off the ice issues, Carter Hart’s NHL return is all but upon us, with the former Philadelphia Flyers goaltender drawing interest as a free agent following the league permitting his return.

There’s been plenty of rumours around Hart thus far, and while 10 or more teams have declared they are not interested in him, there is still plenty of interest in the former second-round draft pick.

Vegas Golden Knights Becoming Clear Favourite to Land Carter Hart

The team most interested in Hart has reportedly been the Vegas Golden Knights, and now, the overwhelming expectation is that he’ll sign a multi-year deal with the team, likely carrying an AAV somewhere in the $2 million range.

That report comes from Frank Seravalli on the Real Kyper and Bourne Show, who reveals the Golden Knights are certainly the team to keep the closest eye on when it comes to Hart moving forward.

During his last stint in the NHL back in 2023/24, Hart tallied a solid 2.80 GAA and a .906 save percentage, and while he may never turn into the star that some expected, he still has the talent to be a solid NHLer when he gets the opportunity.

Now, Hart is available to sign as a free agent mid-way through October, and unless something changes, all signs are pointing towards Hart being the key backup for Adin Hill moving forward as the Golden Knights look to get back to the Stanley Cup Finals again in 2026.