TSN legal analyst delivers groundbreaking Carter Hart update as NHL return linked to Oilers but insiders say Edmonton uninterested

Carter Hart, the talented former Philadelphia Flyers goaltender, may soon be eligible to return to the NHL—but according to TSN legal analyst Eric Macramalla, a key development suggests his path back is accelerating. Macramalla confidently stated that “Hart will play in the NHL” following his acquittal in the high-profile legal case stemming from the 2018 World Junior Championship scandal. That declaration has refueled speculation linking Hart to the Edmonton Oilers, though subsequent reporting makes clear that the Oilers have no plans to engage.

Macramalla’s remarks, delivered shortly after Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia ruled that the Crown failed to meet its burden of proof in the assault allegations, removed the major legal barrier to Hart’s potential return. Her ruling described the accuser’s testimony as neither “credible nor reliable,” clearing Hart and four other former Canadian junior team members of all charges.With that judgment issued on July 24, 2025, legal impediments have been lifted—though NHL discipline and league review remain ongoing concerns.

Macramalla emphasized that Hart, currently banned pending NHL review, remains eager to resume his NHL career. The legal analyst forecasts Hart could be back on the ice as early as the 2025–26 season if league sanctions allow .

In the days immediately following the verdict, speculation swirled around the Edmonton Oilers, a franchise in urgent need of goaltending support after disappointing Stanley Cup runs due in part to inconsistent netminding. TSN insider Kevin Weekes initially reported “mutual interest” between Hart and the Oilers, citing Hart’s Edmonton roots and friendship with current starter Stuart Skinner as possible links. Sources noted that Edmonton has often targeted local talent in its drafting and minor-league strategy, increasing the narrative’s plausibility.

But these reports sparked a swift rebuttal: NHL insider Jason Gregor asserted unequivocally on July 12 that “any report about the Oilers having interest in Carter Hart is incorrect. Edmonton will not be approaching him, even if he is found not guilty” . Gregor added that the organization “never had any discussion” internally about pursuing Hart—effectively closing the door on rumors at least for now .

Despite the Oilers’ decisiveness, league-wide insiders believe Hart remains under consideration by multiple clubs once cleared. NHL Trade Rumors insider David Pagnotta noted “a solid amount of teams” are keeping tabs on Hart—and that teams in serious goalie need may quietly explore opportunities regardless of public perception . With free-agent options limited and cap constraints pressing, Hart’s relatively low cost and upside make him an intriguing—even if controversial—prospect.

A recent Times of India report added that several clubs are monitoring Hart as the verdict approaches, though the Oilers are explicitly out of the picture . A related article described public backlash potential, noting that GM Stan Bowman and the Oilers would face serious PR consequences if they reversed course after Gregor’s public denial .

What does Hart offer on the ice? A .906 career save percentage across six seasons in Philadelphia, accompanied by a 2.94 goals-against average and flashes of elite promise—including a standout postseason performance in 2020.He has remained in training since January 2024, when he last played before stepping away amid the scandal. That year, the Flyers did not extend a qualifying offer, allowing Hart to become an unrestricted free agent in summer 2024 .

From a hockey standpoint, Hart could fill a gap for teams lacking depth behind the crease or seeking a high-upside reclamation project. But he hasn’t played competitively in over a season, and his inconsistent form before the hiatus has made some teams cautious .

The NHL itself remains a defining obstacle. Despite the not-guilty verdict, the league announced that Hart and the other four players remain ineligible to play pending its own review – a move challenged by the NHL Players’ Association as conflicting with the collective bargaining agreement. That process may take weeks or months, and commissioner Gary Bettman retains authority to impose independent disciplinary measures regardless of the court’s outcome.

If the NHL restores Hart’s eligibility, which teams are likely to engage? According to insiders, clubs in pressing need of goaltending—Detroit, Buffalo, perhaps others not publicly linked—could initiate contact quietly. Pagnotta said some may at least open preliminary discussions if Hart remains clear off the ice .

Those interested may take measures to reduce risk: short-term, low‑AAV contracts; psychological or community outreach support; media statements framing any acquisition in a context of redemption and accountability.

For now, Hart occupies a curious limbo. TSN’s Eric Macramalla argues the legal verdict clears the way for Hart’s NHL return, saying absolutely: “Hart will play in the NHL” . Meanwhile, the Oilers—once floated as a logical suitor—have ruled out any pursuit. That juxtaposition leaves Hart’s future hanging in the balance, dependent on both NHL rulings and the risk calculus of potential suitors.

Hart’s case touches on more than hockey: the league’s governance, public perception, player redemption, and clubs’ willingness to decouple legal outcomes from on‑ice decisions. If the NHL reinstates him, his availability may trigger broader ethical and strategic debates across the sport.

At 26 years old and a native of Alberta, Hart still possesses NHL-level athletic potential. But he hasn’t played since January 2024 and remains a polarizing figure. Only time will tell whether one or more teams will offer a conditional second chance—or continue to steer clear amidst residual concerns.

In summary: TSN legal analyst Eric Macramalla’s confident declaration offers hope that Carter Hart’s NHL exile may be ending. His not‑guilty verdict removes a major obstacle. Yet Edmonton—and likely others—remain cautious. Some teams are watching closely, but league reinstatement and public optics will ultimately determine whether Carter Hart gets back between NHL pipes, or remains on the outside looking in.