Vegas Golden Knights Receive Salary Cap Relief from Robin Lehner’s Contract

In a significant development for the Vegas Golden Knights, the team has secured salary cap relief for the final year of goaltender Robin Lehners contract. According to reports from Daily Faceoff and ESPN, Lehners $5 million cap hit will not count against the Golden Knights salary cap for the upcoming season.

This resolution was reached after extensive discussions between the Golden Knights, the NHL, and the NHL Players Association (NHLPA). The agreement comes on the heels of Lehner failing to report for a mandatory preseason medical exam, a requirement for players being considered for long-term injured reserve (LTIR) under the collective bargaining agreement.

Lehner, 33, has not played since April 20, 2022, due to undergoing shoulder and hip surgeries. Despite his absence, he will still receive his salary of $4.4 million for the final year of his five-year, $25 million contract.

Implications for the Golden Knights

This cap relief is crucial for the Golden Knights as they navigate the $88 million upper limit of the NHL salary cap. By not having to utilize LTIR for Lehner, the team remains cap compliant and avoids the need to accrue cap space throughout the season for potential trades. This flexibility is particularly important as teams must submit their cap-compliant rosters by the start of the regular season.

The Golden Knights currently have $1.46 million in cap space, and without Lehners cap hit, they maintain a more manageable financial situation, avoiding the tight squeeze that would have occurred if his salary were included.

Lehners Personal and Financial Situation

Lehner is currently involved in a near-two-year-long Chapter 7 bankruptcy case, with creditors claiming he owes more than $27 million. Recent allegations include the transfer of money to offshore companies and significant spending on luxury items and gambling. A judge froze Lehners assets on September 27 following these allegations.

Lehner has been an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, having spoken publicly about his experiences with bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD, which have led to substance abuse issues. In 2019, he was awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for his perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.

The resolution of this situation marks a significant development for both Lehner and the Golden Knights, allowing the team to move forward with greater financial flexibility while ensuring Lehner receives his contractual compensation.

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