The situation takes an unexpected turn for Carter Hart after latest update
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Vegas GM says Adin Hill will bounce back next season while crediting Carter Hart for the Golden Knights run to the Stanley Cup Final.
Kelly McCrimmon isn't running from the goaltending questions in Vegas, he's answering them head on.
The Golden Knights GM made it clear this week that he still believes in Adin Hill despite a rough season, and he's not shy about how much Carter Hart meant to this team's run to the Cup Final.
It's a vote of confidence that should ease some nerves heading into next year.
Hill has been the guy in Vegas since he backstopped the franchise to its first Stanley Cup back in 2023, but last season didn't look like him.
He battled a lower body injury that cost him nearly three months, started only 27 games, and posted the worst save percentage of his career.
Vegas still chose to keep him around instead of moving him, and McCrimmon explained why.
McCrimmon stands behind Hill
"I think Adin is going to bounce back. I think he's a good goalie who had a tough season. We need him to revert to form. We expect that he will. Carter, for me, made a great impression getting us right to the Stanley Cup Final, so I think we're in good shape at that position."
- Kelly McCrimmon
- Kelly McCrimmon
Thats about as clear as it gets from a GM.
He's not writing off Hill, and he's fully aware of what Hart brought to the table down the stretch and into the playoffs.
Whats next for the crease
Hill still has five years left on his deal worth $6.25 million a season, so this tandem looks like it's sticking around.
How coach Ryan Craig splits the workload will be the next thing to watch as camp approaches, but one thing is clear, Hart is going to have to earn the starter's position as it won't be guaranteed.
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