Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill took a significant step toward returning to action Saturday, practicing with the team at Fifth Third Arena in Chicago for the first time since suffering a lower-body injury Oct. 20.
Hill, who has been sidelined since a noncontact injury in the first period against the Carolina Hurricanes, was seen in full practice attire signing autographs for fans. The appearance marks the first visual confirmation of the 29-year-old on the ice since the injury.
Coach Bruce Cassidy indicated on Dec. 23 that Hill was “getting closer” to returning. The goalie has been listed as week-to-week.
Hill backstopped the Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup title in 2023 and made a career-high 50 starts last season. He also represented Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off. However, the injury prevented him from being considered for Canada’s Winter Olympics roster in February.
The Knights signed Hill to a six-year, $37.5 million extension on March 13. He has been plagued by injuries since joining the team before the 2022 season.
In his absence, Carter Hart and Akira Schmid have handled the goaltending duties. Hart has started five of the last six games entering Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks. Hill’s return will force a decision on the team’s goaltending rotation.
