Robin Lehner breaches his contract, termination likely

The exam was required to confirm his ineligibility to play, which would allow him to be placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR).

Lehner, 33, hasn't played since April 2022 and was expected to miss his third straight season due to injuries after undergoing hip surgery in August 2022. He was entering the final year of a five-year, $25 million contract, with $4.5 million in salary owed for the 2024-25 season.

According to the NHL's collective bargaining agreement, even injured players must undergo a medical exam at the start of each season to confirm they are unfit to play. This allows the team to place them on LTIR and potentially gain salary cap relief.

Lehner's failure to attend the exam could lead the Golden Knights to terminate his contract, saving them not only the $4.5 million salary but also freeing them from his $5 million cap hit. This would allow Vegas to avoid starting another season with LTIR complications. However, the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) is likely to push back to protect the rights of injured players whose pay is guaranteed.

Lehner's situation is complex, and his $4.5 million salary is at stake. The Golden Knights, the NHLPA, and Lehner's representation have not yet commented on the situation.

Lehner has been a fan favorite throughout his career, known for his efforts both on and off the ice. He won the Bill Masterton Trophy in 2019 and has been an advocate for mental health awareness, openly discussing his struggles with bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and addiction. His path to sobriety led to the $25 million deal with Vegas, which is now in jeopardy.