The Golden Knights have come to an agreement regarding Robin Lehner’s contract for the final year of his $25 million deal. According to sources, Lehner will still be paid by the team, but he will not count against their salary cap.
After extensive discussions between the team, the NHL, and the NHLPA, this resolution was reached. Lehner, who is 33 years old, is set to receive $4.4 million this season to fulfill the remainder of his five-year contract.
Lehner was not present at the team’s training camp for a mandatory physical, which is required for players on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) as per the collective bargaining agreement. However, sources have revealed that there was a specific reason why the goalie could not attend camp in Vegas, and all parties involved were aware of this reason. This situation is considered by league sources to be “unprecedented and highly unique.”
When reached for comment by ESPN, Lehner declined to make any statements at this time. His last NHL game was played in April 2022, after which he underwent hip surgery and proceeded to rehab away from the team.
Known for his advocacy for mental health awareness, Lehner has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD, which led to substance abuse. In 2019, he was awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for exemplifying qualities such as perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.
As the regular season is set to begin this week, NHL teams are required to be cap compliant. Without this resolution, the Golden Knights would have had the option to terminate Lehner’s contract or utilize LTIR once again to start the season.