Carter Hart’s Triumphant Return: Golden Knights Secure 6-3 Victory
LAS VEGAS (AP) – April 2, 2026 – Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Carter Hart made a highly anticipated return to the ice on Thursday night, activated off injured reserve and immediately impacting the game with a stellar performance. Hart backstopped the Golden Knights to a decisive 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames.
After being sidelined since January 8th due to a left leg injury sustained against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Hart delivered a solid showing, making 19 saves. While acknowledging some initial rust, Hart expressed satisfaction with his performance as the game progressed.
“Obviously, there’s a little bit of rust to shake off when you haven’t played for a few months,” Hart stated post-game. “I think as the game went on, I felt better and better. We did a good job of boxing guys out and blocking some shots. Obviously, they got a few there. Their last two (goals), I got a little deep in the net there. I’ll make adjustments and learn from it and go from there.”
A Hard-Fought Victory
The Golden Knights faced adversity early, falling behind three times before ultimately taking control in the third period. Hart was particularly strong in the final frame, stopping all three shots he faced. This performance highlighted his ability to remain focused and composed under pressure.
Head coach John Tortorella praised Hart’s performance, stating, “I thought he handled himself well. He made some key saves at key times. I liked his game.” Tortorella, in his second game at the helm after replacing Bruce Cassidy, has a pre-existing relationship with Hart, having coached him in Philadelphia from 2022-2024.
“Carter and I have a really good relationship,” Tortorella added. “He’s becoming a really good pro. I love the kid. We’ve had a lot of conversations. I think he’s handled himself so well through some pretty hard times the past couple of years. I think he’s a good kid. People have made judgments on him. People are still making judgments on him.”
A New Chapter for Hart
Hart signed with the Vegas Golden Knights in October, making his debut on December 2nd in a 4-3 win against the Chicago Blackhawks. This marked his first NHL appearance in nearly two years. His return to the league comes after being acquitted, along with four other 2018 Canadian World Junior Hockey players, of sexual assault charges in July. Hart was the first of the group to secure an NHL contract.
The league ruled that these players were eligible to sign deals beginning October 15th and to play starting December 1st. Hart signed a two-year, $4 million contract, signaling a fresh start and a renewed opportunity to showcase his talent.
“I loved playing for Torts in Philly,” Hart said. “We got along really well, and I think he’s going to add a really good spark to our group here. So far, the guys seem to really like him, and he’s a good fit here.”
Goaltending Outlook for the Golden Knights
With Hart’s return, the Golden Knights now boast a trio of goaltenders, including starter Adin Hill and Akira Schmid. Coach Tortorella remained tight-lipped about his plans for the goaltending rotation.
“I have no plan on how to attack it,” Tortorella said. “I have a plan on who the goalie’s going to be the next game.”
Source: AP News
