The Flyers have not provided specific reasons for their leave.
The Philadelphia Flyers have granted goalie Carter Hart an indefinite leave of absence due to personal reasons. Despite head coach John Tortorella confirming Hart was not injured or ill, the Flyers have not provided further details on the reason behind his absence.
Hart has been struggling in net, allowing five goals in a recent game against the Colorado Avalanche. Despite his overall season numbers being decent, Tortorella and fans are favoring rookie goalie Sam Ersson, who has been a star goaltender since November. Hart’s recent performance has led to his withdrawal in the third period.
The reasons behind Kevin Hart’s request for a leave of absence have been a topic of speculation. Factors include family issues, team conduct, and personal health concerns. Hart experienced a severe illness in December, leading to significant weight loss and a 19-day absence from playing. In an interview with Jordan Hall of NBC Sports Philadelphia, Hart stated that he is now on the right track to overcome the illness and hope to feel better in the future.
Hockey Canada filed a lawsuit in April 2022, alleging sexual assault by members of the 2018 World Junior Championship team, including Hart, and settled in May 2022. Meanwhile, Calgary Flames forward Dillon Dube took an indefinite leave of absence on January 21, attributed to mental health reasons. There is no confirmation that Hart’s and Dube’s decisions are linked in any way.
The NHL initiated an investigation into the matter after the initial suit was filed, but no updates have been provided as of January 2024. In September 2022, Hart stated he was cooperating and respecting the league’s investigation, but could not comment on the matter at this time.
In April 2023, the individual stated in a press conference that they could not discuss the matter at the moment, stating that they would only do so once the situation was over, and any speculation surrounding the matter was purely speculation.
