Ethan Bear successfully passed through NHL waivers and was officially loaned to the Hershey Bears on Saturday following three preseason appearances with the Washington Capitals.
The 27-year-old defenseman returns to the AHL after participating in only 85 of 164 potential games over his last two NHL seasons. Bear sustained a shoulder injury while representing Team Canada at the 2023 World Championship, which required an extensive rehabilitation period. Upon his return and subsequent signing with the Capitals, he was only able to join the lineup 24 times before concluding the 2023-24 season in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
As reported by a Hershey representative, Bear did not take the ice in Hershey’s final preseason game against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, which resulted in a 4-2 loss at PPL Center. The right-handed defenseman is expected to join the team on Sunday, during their day off, and will participate in practice on Monday morning.
Before Bear cleared waivers, Todd Nelson, head coach of the Hershey Bears, spoke about the potential incorporation of an NHL veteran into the roster.
“We faced a similar situation last year with (Nic) Aube-Kubel, right?” Nelson remarked to RMNB at Giant Center on Friday night. “If Bear clears waivers and joins us in Hershey, it’s crucial that we get him playing and help him regain confidence in his game, which will come with time and repetition.”
“I think the most important thing is that if he is here, I’ll approach him and say our responsibility is to assist you in returning to the National Hockey League. It’s a mutual effort; we’ll do everything we can to help, but you also need to focus on your part.”
Nelson, who was named AHL Coach of the Year, has a proven track record of constructing championship squads—highlighted by three Calder Cup victories—as well as successfully developing prospects and rejuvenating players for NHL opportunities.
Aube-Kubel, whom Nelson mentioned, was released from the Capitals’ Training Camp roster in 2023. Nevertheless, the checking-line forward eventually received a call-up to the NHL after making 11 appearances with Hershey.
NAK went on to play 60 games for Washington, establishing himself on the team’s fourth line alongside Nic Dowd and Beck Malenstyn. The Stanley Cup-winning winger signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Buffalo Sabres on the opening day of free agency.
Last season, Nelson also facilitated the temporary inclusion of Evgeny Kuznetsov with the Bears for five days when the center returned from Player Assistance. Kuznetsov impressed his teammates with his enthusiasm, talent, and skating ability but ultimately did not compete in any games for the team before being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes at the Trade Deadline.
The acquisition of Bear may enhance the AHL’s back-to-back defending champions, making them one of the most formidable defensive teams in the league. In the preseason game on Friday, Hershey showcased what could potentially resemble their opening night defensive line-up, featuring captain Dylan McIlrath and Alex Alexeyev, who remains in Washington for now.
The last time Bear participated in the AHL was during the 2018-19 season with the Bakersfield Condors, the Edmonton Oilers’ affiliate, where he accumulated 31 points (6 goals, 25 assists) over 52 games.
Hershey’s season opener is set for Saturday, October 12, coinciding with their banner-raising ceremony. They will host the Cleveland Monsters.
Ethan Bear Cleared Waivers: Joins Hershey Bears on Loan as He Aims for NHL Comeback
Overview of Ethan Bear’s Situation
Ethan Bear, a defenseman with a strong presence on the ice, recently cleared waivers and has been loaned to the Hershey Bears as he seeks to make a return to the NHL. This move comes after a challenging period in his career, but it serves as a promising step toward regaining his position among the elite players in the league.
Background Information
- Name: Ethan Bear
- Position: Defenseman
- Current Team: Washington Capitals
- Contract: Signed a two-year, $4.125 million contract, averaging $2.0625 million per year [[1](https://www.nhl.com/news/ethan-bear-signs-two-year-contract-with-washington-capitals)].
The Waiver Process Explained
For those unfamiliar with the NHL waiver process, it is a mechanism that allows teams to expose players to other teams in the league. If a player clears waivers, they can be assigned to a minor league team without the risk of being claimed by another NHL team. This situation is often utilized by teams to provide players with more playing time and an opportunity to develop their skills further.
Ethan Bear’s Journey to Hershey
Before joining the Hershey Bears, Ethan Bear had a notable trajectory in the NHL. Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2015, he quickly made a name for himself as a reliable defenseman with both offensive capabilities and defensive awareness. However, recent seasons presented challenges that affected his playing time and performance.
Challenges Faced by Bear
- Injury setbacks that limited his on-ice appearances.
- Inconsistent performance during critical game situations.
- Shifts in team dynamics and coaching strategies that did not favor his playing style.
Impact of Joining the Hershey Bears
Joining the Hershey Bears provides Ethan Bear with a crucial opportunity to improve his game and regain confidence. The Bears, as an affiliate of the Washington Capitals, represent a stable environment for Bear to showcase his skills and work closely with coaching staff who are aligned with the Capitals’ development strategies.
Benefits of Playing in the AHL
Playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) has several advantages for NHL players looking to make a comeback:
- Increased Playing Time: More opportunities on the ice help players regain their rhythm and improve their game.
- Skill Development: Direct access to focused coaching can enhance specific skills that need improvement.
- Confidence Building: Success in the AHL can lead to improved morale and readiness for the NHL.
What to Expect from Bear in Hershey
Hershey Bears fans can anticipate a strong performance from Ethan Bear as he adjusts to this new role. His experience and skill set position him as a key player for the team, and his presence can significantly impact their defensive strategy.
Potential Contributions
Bear’s contributions to the Hershey Bears can be categorized into several areas:
- Defensive Skills: His ability to read plays and anticipate opposing moves will bolster the Bears’ defense.
- Power Play Potential: Bear has demonstrated proficiency in contributing to power-play scenarios, which could enhance the Bears’ scoring opportunities.
- Leadership: As a player with NHL experience, Bear can offer guidance to younger teammates and foster a competitive atmosphere.
Performance Metrics and Analysis
Key Statistics
| Season | Games Played | Points | Plus/Minus | Average Time on Ice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 43 | 21 | +6 | 21:05 |
| 2021-2022 | 60 | 24 | -3 | 22:30 |
| 2022-2023 | 30 | 10 | -5 | 19:45 |
Community Engagement and Fan Support
Bear’s move to Hershey has garnered attention from fans and the local community. Engaging with the fan base is crucial for both the player and the team as it creates an encouraging atmosphere for growth and success.
Ways for Fans to Support Bear
- Attend Games: Fans are encouraged to attend Hershey Bears games to show their support.
- Social Media Engagement: Following and interacting with Bear on social platforms can boost his confidence and morale.
- Merchandise: Purchasing Hershey Bears merchandise helps support the team financially and fosters a sense of community.
Looking Ahead: Bear’s Path Back to the NHL
As Ethan Bear embarks on this journey with the Hershey Bears, the goal remains clear: to return to the NHL stronger and more skilled than before. With dedication, hard work, and support from fans and teammates, Bear has the potential to make a significant impact upon his return to the highest level of professional hockey.
Conclusion
The journey of an NHL player is often filled with ups and downs, and Ethan Bear’s current loan to the Hershey Bears exemplifies the resilience required to succeed. The support from the community and the experiences he gains in the AHL will be pivotal in shaping his future in the league.
