Vegas Golden Knights goaltender fails to report for medical: Is this the end of his NHL career?

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River Hawk
September 19, 2024 (8:34)

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According to Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Robin Lehner failed to report to his mandatory medical exam and is now at risk of contract termination.

The Vegas Golden Knights have quickly garnered a less-than-favorable reputation in the league for what some claim is an inappropriate use of long-term injured reserve (LTIR). Yet, one player on their roster who few could deny belongs there is goaltender Robin Lehner. In February of 2022, the Golden Knights goalie injured his shoulder which would later require season-ending surgery. However, it was only a month later when Robin Lehner suffered a hip injury that would require surgery that has kept him on LTIR ever since.

However, reports indicate that Vegas may be off the hook when it comes to the final year of the injured goaltender's $25 million deal. According to Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, Robin Lehner failed to report to his mandatory preseason medical exam. Without the team able to determine his inability to play, they are now forced to review their options, including contract termination. The team has since contacted the NHL Player's Association to ensure the soundness of the proceedings.

"The Vegas Golden Knights are reviewing their options, up to and including contract termination, after goaltender Robin Lehner failed to attend training camp for a mandatory pre-season medical exam required to confirm his ineligibility to play, multiple sources told Daily Faceoff.

The Golden Knights have consulted with the NHL on the issue, which in turn, has been in touch with the NHL Players' Association regarding proper contractual treatment in light of a situation which includes unique circumstances."

Seravlli broke down the stakes of these negotiations, implying that based on the rarity of the situation, it could provide a new precedent for injured players' rights in the league moving forward. Robin Lehner was absent from one medical exam and could miss out on $4.5 million while the Golden Knights load off a $5 million cap hit problem in the LTIR scot-free. Ultimately, the NHLPA will be acting as a board to prevent maltreatment of the former Vegas goaltender and perforce future players.

"There is a lot riding on these contractual discussions - for Lehner, for the Golden Knights and for the NHLPA. Lehner has $4.5 million in salary at stake, since there is no dispute that he failed to show up on Wednesday. The Golden Knights could move to terminate Lehner's contract and not only absolve themselves of the $4.5 million financial commitment, but more importantly, his $5 million cap hit this season and potentially eliminate the need to start another season in LTIR. The NHLPA, of course, will want to avoid a new precedent set and want to protect the rights of all players - particularly injured players whose pay is guaranteed. Lehner also acknowledged he was a participant in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program."

Robin Lehner, now 33 years old, has had a storied 12-year career in the NHL, winning two William M. Jennings trophies and the 2018-19 Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy. Yet, there is little doubt that after 364 games in the league, his time behind the crease is over. Hopefully, the Vegas Golden Knights and NHLPA come to an agreement that does not leave him in the dust.

Source: Daily Faceoff
Sources: Golden Knights reviewing options after Robin Lehner failed to report for medical