Goaltender Robin Lehner is holding onto hope for a return to the NHL. He told Sportsnet he is optimistic about a resolution after the Vegas Golden Knights announced that he hadn’t reported to the team.
“Everyone knows why I couldn’t be there,” Lehner said. “I’m waiting patiently for things to get sorted out.”
Lehner has been on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) since undergoing hip surgery in August 2022, and the Golden Knights have provided limited updates regarding his status. There has been little speculation about him possibly playing this season.
The goaltender was required to undergo a medical checkup to remain on LTIR, which allows Vegas to manage their salary cap while ensuring Lehner still gets paid. Lehner is in the final year of his contract, with a salary of $4.4 million. If he fails to report and his contract is terminated, the team’s salary cap hit of $5 million would no longer count, potentially freeing up cap space.
Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon addressed the situation, saying, “He continues to be unfit to play. We’re working through unique circumstances with the NHL, the NHLPA, and the club. When we have more to say, we will, but there’s nothing further to add for now.”
Lehner’s future remains uncertain, but he is clearly focused on finding a path forward in his career.