Flyers issue shocking announcement regarding young star goaltender

"Carter Hart has requested and been granted an indefinite leave of absence citing personal reasons. The club will have no further comment at this time."

Earlier in the day, head coach John Tortorella intimated that Samuel Ersson would draw the start against the Lightning, which might not have been a surprise considering the strong play from the young Swede in recent weeks. However, Hart was not present for practice and all Tortorella shared in terms of an update on the situation was that Hart remained healthy.

On the season, the 25-year-old goaltender has posted a 12-9-3 record with a 2.80 G.A.A. and a .906 SV%. He started the year 9-6-1 but sported far better peripherals in a .919 SV% and a G.A.A under 2.30 but fell to a mysterious illness and hasn't been the same since. Upon his return he has posted a .883 SV% and a 3.50 G.A.A. in 9 contests.

The Flyers refused to comment any further and it's only a matter of time until speculations intensify - as they already have - since Hart was previously implicated in the Hockey Canada investigation that took place over the summer.

For the time being, mum is the word, but it's definitely a situation to keep an eye as we move forward into the season. The Flyers were running a 1A/1B tandem for most of the season but expect Ersson to assume starting duties for the foreseeable future.