Sources – Golden Knights to pay Robin Lehner without cap hit

The Golden Knights can pay Robin Lehner for the ultimate yr of his $25 million contract, however the goalie won’t depend in opposition to Vegas’ wage cap, sources advised ESPN.

The decision was reached Thursday after prolonged discussions among the many crew, NHL and NHLPA. Lehner, 33, is owed $4.4 million this season to finish a five-year contract.

Lehner didn’t report back to coaching camp for a compulsory bodily — which is required by the collective bargaining settlement for gamers on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) — however sources advised ESPN there was a particular purpose the goalie couldn’t be in Vegas, which the crew, league and gamers’ affiliation had been all conscious of. Given the delicate nature of Lehner’s state of affairs, league sources known as it an “unprecedented and extremely distinctive” case.

Reached by ESPN, Lehner stated he wouldn’t be making feedback right now.

Lehner final performed an NHL sport in April 2022. He underwent hip surgical procedure that summer time and rehabbed away from the crew after that.

The Swedish-born goalie has been an outspoken advocate over the previous a number of years asking for extra understanding round psychological well being. Lehner has opened up about his experiences with bipolar dysfunction, ADHD and PTSD, which led to substance abuse.

In 2019, he gained the Invoice Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL participant who greatest exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to ice hockey.

NHL groups have to be cap compliant at first of the common season, which begins this week. Had this decision not been reached, the Golden Knights might have tried to terminate Lehner’s contract or would have begun the season utilizing LTIR once more.