Carter Hart, the goaltender who has been suspended through the end of 2027, remains a candidate for Canada’s 2028 World Cup of Hockey roster. His recent suspension has not dimmed the curiosity surrounding his potential inclusion, especially as the tournament approaches.
Aiden Hill, a 30‑year‑old netminder currently under contract until 2031 and earning $6.25 million annually, posted an 87.1 save percentage last season. While his experience includes a Stanley Cup championship, his recent inconsistency has sparked debate about his suitability for the national team.
Financial and performance considerations
The financial landscape further complicates the decision. Younger prospects such as Sebastian Cosa, who toils in Detroit’s system, and Del‑Devon Levi in Buffalo, are not only less expensive but also bring high upside at a fraction of Hill’s average annual value.
Jordan Binnington, the veteran who helped the St. Louis Blues capture a championship, is slated to become an unrestricted free agent next summer, adding another variable to the goaltending equation.
Anthony Stolarz, who signed a four‑year agreement with Toronto worth $3.75 million per year, is being positioned as a more attractive tandem option than Hill, whose performance metrics have fluctuated this season.
Coach Kelly McCrimmon now confronts the challenge of balancing cap constraints with the need for reliable netminding, especially after Hill’s recent championship success and his contractual commitments.
The Vegas Golden Knights’ recent experiment of rotating three goalies before promoting Hart to the starting role illustrates the premium placed on fresh talent and the unpredictable nature of NHL goaltending markets.