Following hip surgery last year, he missed all of the season. Furthermore, there are doubts that he will be able to play at all in 2024-25. Despite this, the Las Vegas Golden Knights still expect him to honor his commitments while under contract. For instance, even if you are injured, you are supposed to take part in a mandatory physical that confirms whether or not you are fit to play.
According to Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, Lehner failed to show up for the physical. Consequently, the team is looking to take action and they might just terminate his contract if the NHL allows it.
Lehner is set to make $5 million this season. However, if he has his contract terminated, the deal is null and void and he makes nothing. Furthermore, the Vegas Golden Knights don't have to take the cap hit and they don't even need to put him on long-term injured reserve.
It has been a difficult time for Lehner who was recently put in the NHL Players Assistance Program. Furthermore, he had to file for bankruptcy due to debts in excess of $50 million. Hopefully, he can land on his feet and get right after a rough few years in the league.