Carter Hart makes NHL return with Golden Knights after acquittal - ESPN

LAS VEGAS — Goalie Carter Hart, one of five 2018 Canada world junior hockey players acquitted of sexual assault in July, made his first NHL appearance in nearly two years Tuesday night, debuting for the Vegas Golden Knights in a 4-3 shootout victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

Hart received the loudest reaction from Golden Knights fans during pregame introductions, and if there were any boos, they were difficult to hear. Some fans also held signs supportive of Hart.

Hart made 27 saves, including six in overtime.

«I think just skating out the first time onto the ice wearing a Golden Knights sweater is an amazing feeling,» Hart said. «It didn't really sink in until the national anthem. Just looking around and that feeling you're back playing.»

Hart then became emotional, wiping his right eye.

«Sorry,» he said. «Yeah, it's been a really difficult journey to get back, one I wouldn't have been able to do without my family and friends. I'm just so happy to be playing the game again.»

Hart was the first of those five Canada junior players to agree to an NHL contract. The league ruled those players were eligible to sign deals beginning Oct. 15 and to play starting Dec. 1. Hart signed a two-year, $4 million contract and has been working with Vegas' American Hockey League affiliate in Henderson, Nevada.

After he agreed to sign, Hart read a statement to reporters that, in part, said he wanted «to show the community my true character and who I am and what I'm about.»

Hart was asked Monday what steps he has taken to fulfill that pledge.

«There's been a few things we've talked about,» Hart said. «We did a thing there in Henderson helping out the homeless. There's some things we've talked about throughout the season. Whatever I can do