Who is Carter Hart? The Canadian hockey star accused in the Hockey Canada sexual assault scandal | NHL News
Once viewed as the future of goaltending in Philadelphia, Carter Hart’s NHL career has taken a dramatic turn amid serious criminal allegations tied to the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault scandal. A former standout with the Everett Silvertips and one of Canada’s brightest young stars between the pipes, Hart now finds himself at the center of one of hockey’s most controversial and troubling stories.
A rising Canadian goaltender with a reputation for mental toughness and poise
Born in Sherwood Park, Alberta, Hart was introduced to sports psychology by age 10 and was known for his sharp focus and calm demeanor on the ice. Drafted 48th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2016, he quickly emerged as a top NHL goaltender, becoming the youngest in franchise history to win his debut in 2018. His poise in high-pressure moments—like back-to-back playoff shutouts in 2020—earned him widespread praise.Internationally, Hart was a mainstay in Team Canada’s net, winning gold at the 2018 World Junior Championship and silver at the 2019 World Championship. Known for his vision training, quiet intensity, and technical discipline, he was often compared to Montreal Canadiens legend Carey Price—his childhood idol.
From NHL starter to unrestricted free agent after serious criminal charges
Everything changed in early 2024. Hart was placed on indefinite leave by the Flyers in January, with the team citing “personal reasons.” Days later, London, Ontario police named Hart as one of five players ordered to surrender and face charges related to an alleged sexual assault involving members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior team.On February 5, Hart was officially charged with one count of sexual assault. The allegations stem from an incident that has rocked Hockey Canada and led to national outcry, mass resignations, and suspended funding from the federal government.In the wake of the charges, the Flyers declined to extend a qualifying offer to Hart, making him an unrestricted free agent. He has not returned to professional play since.Also Read: Hockey Canada sexual assault trial timeline: Inside the scandal threatening to change Canadian sports foreverAs court proceedings unfold, the once-celebrated netminder remains one of the most controversial figures in Canadian hockey—a cautionary tale about how a promising career can unravel amid serious off-ice allegations.
