Overview
- Hart made 27 saves in a 4–3 shootout win over the Blackhawks in his first NHL game since January 2024 and was named the third star.
- ESPN referenced the case in a pregame graphic but largely omitted it during the game, prompting complaints about an overly celebratory tone; the network declined comment.
- A Canadian judge acquitted Hart and four former world junior teammates in July, finding prosecutors did not meet the burden of proof.
- The NHL permitted returns beginning Dec. 1 after previously calling the players’ conduct “deeply troubling and unacceptable,” and Vegas signed Hart to a two-year, $4 million deal in October.
- In-arena reception was largely positive, online critics argued he should not be playing, and Hart is the only acquitted player to secure a new NHL contract so far.