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Lehner hopes to revive his career after failing to report to Vegas
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Lehner hopes to revive his career after failing to report to Vegas

LAS VEGAS — Goalie Robin Lehner shows no sign of giving up on his NHL career, telling Sportsnet he’s hoping for a resolution after the Vegas Golden Knights said he hadn’t reported for duty.

“The only thing I can say at this point is that everyone knows why I couldn’t be there,” Lehner said. “I’m just waiting for things to be resolved.”

Lehner underwent hip surgery in August 2022 and was placed on the long-term injury reserve list. Since then, the club management has not said much about Lehner’s status and there has been little talk about his possible participation this season.

But Lehner had to undergo a medical to remain eligible for LTIR, meaning the Golden Knights don’t have to count him against their salary cap but the player still receives his salary.

Lehner is in the final year of his contract and is due $4.4 million in salary. If he does not report and the team terminates his contract, Lehner’s $5 million cap hit, which would have been part of the long-term injured reserve, would be wiped off the books.

“He’s still not fit to play,” Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon said Thursday. “There are unique circumstances surrounding the situation that the NHL, the NHLPA (Players Association) and the club are currently dealing with. Together, we’re assessing our next steps and when we have more to say, we will. Until then, there’s nothing more to report.”