Robin Lehner’s Mysterious Absence: Vegas Golden Knights Goalie Missing in Action since 2022
Goalie Robin Lehner’s absence from the Vegas Golden Knights has left fans and management puzzled as the player has failed to report to the team since 2022. This unexpected turn of events has forced the club to reconsider its options regarding Lehner, who has been sidelined for over two years due to a lingering hip injury.
Lehner underwent hip surgery in August 2022 and was subsequently placed on long-term injured reserve. Since then, there has been a veil of silence surrounding Lehner’s status, with little information being shared by the club management. Despite hopes of a potential return to the ice this season, it seems that Lehner’s situation has taken a different turn.
In order to remain on long-term injured reserve, Lehner was required to undergo a medical checkup. This status allows the Golden Knights to exclude him from their salary cap calculations while ensuring that he continues to receive his salary. As Lehner enters the final year of his contract, he is due to receive $4.4 million in salary. However, if he fails to report and the team decides to terminate his contract, his $5 million cap hit – which would have been part of long-term injured reserve – would be removed from the team’s books.
Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon addressed Lehner’s absence in a recent news conference, stating, “He continues to be unfit to play. There are unique circumstances surrounding the situation that the NHL, the NHLPA, and the club are currently working through. Collectively, we are assessing our next steps and when we have more to say, we will. There’ll be nothing further until then.” The mystery surrounding Lehner’s absence has left many questioning the future of the talented goalie.
The Controversial Trade and Financial Struggles
Vegas acquired Lehner in a trade back in February 2020, a move that stirred controversy among fans and ultimately led to the departure of starting goalie Marc-Andre Fleury. Despite initial skepticism, Lehner quickly proved his worth to the team, becoming a key player in the Golden Knights’ lineup. However, his extended absence has raised concerns about his future with the club.
In addition to his on-ice struggles, Lehner and his wife, Donya, faced financial difficulties, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy two years ago. According to reports, the couple owes creditors more than $27 million, adding another layer of complexity to Lehner’s current situation. The financial strain may have contributed to the goalie’s prolonged absence and could potentially impact his future in the NHL.
The Road Ahead for Robin Lehner and the Vegas Golden Knights
As the Golden Knights navigate the uncertainties surrounding Robin Lehner’s absence, the team must consider the implications of his prolonged hiatus on their roster and salary cap. With the goalie’s contract set to expire soon, tough decisions lie ahead for management as they weigh the options available to them.
The NHL, NHLPA, and the Golden Knights are actively working to address the unique circumstances surrounding Lehner’s situation. While details remain scarce, it is clear that the goalie’s absence has raised questions about his future in the league. As fans await further updates, the fate of Robin Lehner and his future with the Vegas Golden Knights hangs in the balance.