Golden Knights Activate Carter Hart for Flames Matchup

Injured goalie returns to the ice after missing over 3 months

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:01am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey goaltender in action, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the players and the arena.The return of star goaltender Carter Hart provides a much-needed boost for the Vegas Golden Knights as they battle for a playoff spot.Columbus Today

The Vegas Golden Knights have activated goaltender Carter Hart from injured reserve and he will start the team's game against the Calgary Flames on Thursday night. Hart has been sidelined since January 8th when he suffered a left leg injury during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Why it matters

Hart's return is a major boost for the Golden Knights as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. The 24-year-old goalie has been a key part of Vegas' success over the past few seasons and his presence in net could give the team a needed lift down the stretch.

The details

Hart was placed on injured reserve on January 9th after suffering the left leg injury in the game against Columbus. He has been working his way back to full health over the past few months and was cleared to return to the lineup for Thursday's matchup with the Flames.

  • Carter Hart was injured on January 8th during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
  • Hart was placed on injured reserve on January 9th.
  • Hart has been out of the lineup for over 3 months.
  • Hart was activated off injured reserve and will start against the Calgary Flames on April 3rd, 2026.

The players

Carter Hart

A 24-year-old goaltender for the Vegas Golden Knights who has been sidelined since January with a left leg injury.

John Tortorella

The head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights who has a good relationship with Carter Hart.

Calgary Flames

The opponent the Golden Knights will be facing on Thursday night in Carter Hart's return to the lineup.

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What they’re saying

“Carter and I have a really good relationship.”

— John Tortorella, Head Coach, Vegas Golden Knights

What’s next

The Golden Knights will continue to monitor Hart's progress and health as he returns to game action after the lengthy injury layoff.

The takeaway

Carter Hart's return to the lineup is a critical development for the Vegas Golden Knights as they look to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race. His presence in net provides a major boost to the team's chances down the stretch.