Robin Lehner was seemingly living his NHL dream during 2021-22 with the Vegas Golden Knights; starting 44 games, winning 23 victories while posting an astounding goals against average of 2.83 and save percentage of.907. However, beneath this surface level success lay serious financial and personal concerns for Lehner.
Substantial Contract Yet Troubled Times Follow
Lehner was once considered an elite goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL), signing an impressive five-year, $25 million contract extension with the Golden Knights in 2023 en route to winning their inaugural Stanley Cup championship in 2023. Unfortunately however, Lehner’s career was derailed due to personal issues; publicly sharing his fight against bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction seeking help and being recognized with NHL’s Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy as recognition of perseverance and dedication towards hockey.
The Battle Off the Ice: Bankruptcy
Lehner was not part of the championship roster in 2023 and did not report to training camp that September, leading to financial distress that ultimately saw both him and his wife file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2022; as part of that proceeding a federal court issued an order freezing Lehner’s assets due to concerns from creditors regarding repayment.
Financial Mismanagement Allegations
Aliya Growth Fund, who were owed $4.8 million by Lehners, expressed concerns in court documents over their suspected transfers of funds into dubious accounts like those associated with shell companies in Dubai and accounts located offshore. Lehner was accused of disregarding communication attempts from attorneys as well as engaging in extravagant spending post bankruptcy filing, such as spending over $1.5 million on vacations, gambling and luxury items – this being part of Aliya Growth Funds concerns about him squandering millions through dubious accounts like accounts associated with offshore companies located offshore from where funds would have come back into restructured companies in America or London if this case were proven.
Lehner recently addressed these financial struggles head on, rejecting sympathy and justifying his silence by noting falsehoods about his situation. He stressed the unknown hardships his family was forced to endure while hinting that future disclosures will shed more light onto both actions taken as well as circumstances involved.
Impact on Vegas Golden Knights
Lehner recently disclosed he has debts totalling $27.5 million while remaining uncertain of whether or not playing will end soon. It was thus welcomed news when it was agreed his salary wouldn’t affect Vegas Golden Knights salary cap, providing some respite in an otherwise turbulent period for Lehner.
If you are looking for online casino options, check our casino reviews for latest opinions, info, bonuses and promotions. remember to check the legality of playing in your country by filtering down based on licenses.