Another Frontrunner Backs Out of Carter Hart Sweepstakes
Photo credit: NBC Sports Philadelphia
It appears as though we're getting closer to finding out who Carter Hart will sign with, as yet another frontrunner has backed away from the free agent goaltender.
While the Hart initially had many suitors, the number of teams interested in bringing in the young goaltender appear to be dwindling by the day.
Utah out on Hart
It was reported earlier today that the Utah Mammoth will not be pursuing Carter Hart any further, following internal discussions within the organization.
Chris Johnston: Re Carter Hart/Utah rumours: "They certainly had internal conversations there; they're not gonna be in on Carter Hart" - Chris Johnston
Hart has had many teams interested in acquiring his services since he was cleared by the league to return to play. In an NHL market where quality goaltending is few and far between, it doesn't come as a surprise that many teams are itching at the bit to bring Hart onto their roster.
Utah, however, will not be the team Hart resumes his NHL career with.
My sources in the organization are telling me there's zero interest in adding Carter Hart to the Mammoth.
Utah is very pleased with their goaltending situation going into camp.
Utah is very pleased with their goaltending situation going into camp.
If Not Utah, Where?
With Utah out of the picture, we're left with only a handful of teams remaining in the Carter Hart sweepstakes. Who has the edge at this point in time?
David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported yesterday that Carolina was a team interested in signing Hart, and when you think about it, the fit makes sense.
Hart has repeatedly expressed his desire to resume his career on a US-based contender with a clear path to quality playing time, and Carolina could provide just that for the young netminder.
"Per sources, there is an expectation free agent forward Michael McLeod will be joining the Hurricanes this season. Carolina also checked on Carter Hart, as I and others have previously reported."
As we inch closer and closer to the start of the NHL season, we're sure the number of teams involved in the Hart sweepstakes will continue to get smaller. At this rate, we should have a clear idea of who Hart will suit up for next.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 19|494 ANSWERS Another Frontrunner Backs Out of Carter Hart Sweepstakes Would you want Carter Hrt as your starting goaltender right now? | ||
| Yes | 158 | 32 % |
| No | 336 | 68 % |
| List of polls | ||