Oilers’ Net Dilemma: Could Carter Hart Be Edmonton’s Key to NHL Glory?
The Edmonton Oilers face a pressing issue as they strive for NHL supremacy. After falling short against the Florida Panthers in consecutive seasons, scrutiny has shifted to the team’s goaltending situation. A tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard has drawn criticism, prompting questions about the leadership of General Manager Stan Bowman. The lack of decisive action to upgrade the goaltending position is becoming a focal point in discussions surrounding the team’s future.
Analyzing the Goaltending Quandary
In a recent episode of The Sheet podcast, hosted by Jeff Marek, NHL analyst Greg Wyshynski addressed the precarious state of the Oilers’ netminding. He suggested that the uncertainty surrounding the goaltending may even be affecting star player Connor McDavid’s commitment to the team. “What he’s given us is that ‘I want to win in Edmonton’,” Wyshynski remarked, highlighting the underlying anxieties of Oilers fans. This sentiment raises an intriguing question: could the solution lie in acquiring a new goaltender?
Carter Hart: The Potential Solution
Wyshynski brought an intriguing name into the conversation—Carter Hart. “The uncomfortable conversation to have about Edmonton is Carter Hart. Let’s be honest,” he said, noting that the young goaltender could be the best option available without costing the Oilers any roster players. Hart’s name has resurfaced in trade talks, and Wyshynski speculated on the implications of the ongoing investigation into Hart’s situation and the timeline for his potential return to action.
While there are other goaltending options available—such as Ilya Samsonov, Connor Ingram, Nico Daws, and Michael DiPietro—Wyshynski emphasized that Hart might outperform many of those candidates. “He’s going to be better than most goaltenders who are going to be available via trade,” he asserted, leaving the door open for the Oilers to consider Hart seriously.
Training in Edmonton: A Glimmer of Hope
Adding fuel to the speculation, reports indicate that Carter Hart has been training in Edmonton since the conclusion of the 2018 Hockey Canada team trial. The 2 Mutts Podcast recently shared insights from NHL players who skated with Hart this summer, praising his focus and readiness to return to the NHL. “He believes he is able to help a team out,” they noted, indicating that Hart’s mechanics appear to be in excellent shape after his time away from the ice.
Hart’s last NHL appearance was during the 2023-24 season with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he played 26 games, achieving 12 wins, a 2.80 goals-against average, a .906 save percentage, and one shutout. The players who trained with him expressed confidence in his ability to contribute positively to any team, suggesting that an announcement regarding his return could be imminent.
Interest from Multiple Teams
As the Oilers weigh their options, it appears Hart is a sought-after commodity. Reports indicate that several teams, including the Flyers, have expressed interest in bringing Hart in on a professional tryout (PTO) if he is cleared to return. This interest underscores the urgency for the Oilers to act, as they may not be the only franchise looking to capitalize on Hart’s potential.
With the start of the season on the horizon, the Oilers must navigate their goaltending dilemma wisely. The fate of their championship ambitions could very well hinge on whether they seize the opportunity to bring in someone like Carter Hart.
