The Vegas Golden Knights are considering the termination of Robin Lehner’s contract after the goaltender failed to attend a mandatory pre-season medical exam, according to
Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli.
Lehner, who has been sidelined since April 2022 due to injury, was required to attend the exam ahead of Vegas' training camp despite not being expected to play this season following hip surgery.
His absence, however, could now jeopardize the final year of his
five-year, $25 million contract, with the Golden Knights thinking about a contract termination following this development.
"The Vegas Golden Knights are reviewing their options, up to and including contract termination, after goaltender Robin Lehner failed to attend training camp for a mandatory pre-season medical exam required to confirm his ineligibility to play, multiple sources told Daily Faceoff," Seravalli wrote on September 18.
"The Golden Knights have consulted with the NHL on the issue, which in turn, has been in touch with the NHL Players’ Association regarding proper contractual treatment in light of a situation which includes unique circumstances," Seravalli reported.
Lehner, 33, was supposed to undergo the exam to confirm his ineligibility to play, which would have allowed the Golden Knights to place him on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) and seek salary cap relief.
By failing to show, Lehner risks forfeiting his $4.5 million salary for the 2024–25 season, and the Golden Knights may explore options with the NHL to terminate his contract.