Robin Lehner seeks NHL comeback after Golden Knights update
- Robin Lehner underwent hip surgery in August 2022 and was placed on long-term injured reserve.
- The Golden Knights have not provided much information about his status, and Lehner expressed hope for a resolution.
- The situation remains uncertain, impacting both Lehner's career and the team's salary cap management.
Robin Lehner, a goalie for the Vegas Golden Knights, is currently facing challenges in his NHL career after undergoing hip surgery in August 2022. Following the surgery, he was placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), which allows the team to manage salary cap implications while ensuring Lehner receives his salary. However, the club has not provided much information regarding his status, leading to uncertainty about his potential return to play this season. Lehner expressed his hope for a resolution regarding his situation, indicating that he is waiting for matters to be sorted out. He emphasized that there are reasons for his absence, although he did not elaborate on them. The Golden Knights' management has acknowledged that Lehner remains unfit to play and mentioned that there are unique circumstances surrounding his case that are being addressed by the NHL, the NHL Players Association, and the club. As Lehner is in the final year of his contract, he is due to receive $4.4 million in salary. If he fails to report and the team decides to terminate his contract, his $5 million cap hit would be removed from the LTIR. This situation adds pressure on both Lehner and the Golden Knights as they navigate the complexities of his health and contractual obligations. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain, with both Lehner and the team awaiting further developments. The NHL community is closely monitoring the situation, as it could have significant implications for Lehner's career and the Golden Knights' roster management.