Philadelphia Flyers goalie Carter Hart has requested and been granted an indefinite leave of absence from the team for personal reasons. General manager Daniel Briere released a statement on Tuesday, stating, "The club will have no further comment at this time."

Hart, who is 25 years old, has been a key player for the Flyers this season, with a record of 12-9-3 and a 2.80 goals-against average. He has maintained a .906 save percentage and has recorded one shutout in 26 games, with 25 starts.

Recently, Hart and Samuel Ersson have alternated starts since January 10th. Hart's last game was on January 20th, during which he made 10 saves on 15 shots before being replaced by Ersson in the third period of a 7-4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche.

In light of Hart's absence, the Flyers have made the decision to recall goalie Cal Petersen from their American Hockey League affiliate, Lehigh Valley. The team will face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET.

Despite Hart's absence, the Philadelphia Flyers have performed well this season, currently holding second place in the Metropolitan Division. They are four points behind the New York Rangers and one point ahead of the third-place Carolina Hurricanes.

Hart has played a significant role for the Flyers since being chosen by the team in the second round (No. 48) of the 2016 NHL Draft. In his career, he has played 227 regular-season games, with 218 starts. He has a record of 96-93-29, a 2.94 goals-against average, a .906 save percentage, and six shutouts.

During his first full season in the NHL in 2019-2020, Hart showcased his skills with a record of 24-13-3, a 2.42 goals-against average, and a .914 save percentage. He also helped the Flyers secure a victory over the Montreal Canadiens in the 2020 Eastern Conference First Round, becoming the youngest goalie in team history to record consecutive shutouts in the playoffs.

Hart's absence from the Flyers will undoubtedly be felt, but the team remains hopeful for his return. As he navigates his personal matters, the Flyers will rely on the talents of their other goalies to continue their pursuit of success in the NHL.

It is uncertain when Hart will return to the team, as the Flyers have not disclosed any details regarding the duration of his leave. However, his presence on the ice will be greatly missed as the team battles for a higher standing in the division.