Coveted Free Agent Defenseman Signs With Washington Capitals

The Washington Capitals have recently made a significant move in their roster by acquiring the talents of defenseman Ethan Bear.

This addition comes in the form of a two-year contract, carrying an average annual value of approximately $2.0625 million, as reported by Puckedia.

This deal with Bear, who is 26 years old, signifies the Capitals' strategic investment in bolstering their defensive lineup.

Prior to this agreement, Bear played for the Vancouver Canucks in the NHL, where he scored three goals and amassing a total of 16 points over 61 games in the 2022-23 season​.

Expecting that Ethan Bear's #ALLCAPS contract will be finalized & registered in next day or two, and that it will be a 2 year deal with a cap hit of $2.0625M.

Bear was UFA after not being qualified ($2.2M) by #Canucks

Rep'd by Jason Davidson @tcnewsfeedhttps://t.co/3VV7Y9cfNM

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) December 27, 2023

Bear's journey to the Capitals follows his stint with the Canucks, who chose not to qualify him at $2.2 million, thus rendering him an unrestricted free agent.

His availability in the market drew the attention of the Capitals, culminating in this recent contract.

However, Bear's transition to his new team is happening amidst his recovery from a shoulder injury that he sustained while playing for Team Canada at the 2023 IIHF World Championship in May.

Despite this challenge, the Capitals are optimistic about Bear's skills and his potential contributions to their defense​.

According the @PuckPedia the Washington Capitals will sign Ethan Bear to a two-year deal with an AAV of $2.0625M. We expected a one-year deal as Bear had a seriously injury. On the other side, if he'll play like he played before the injury, it's good deal for Washington still. pic.twitter.com/RSEPCdFn9C

— Andy & Rono (@ARHockeyStats) December 27, 2023

Ethan Bear's career in the NHL has been marked by steady progress and adaptation.

Having previously played for the Edmonton Oilers and the Carolina Hurricanes before his time with the Canucks, Bear has accumulated 16 goals and 63 points in a total of 251 NHL games.

During his last season with the Canucks, he contributed three goals, 13 assists, 75 shots, 39 hits, and 69 blocks, maintaining a plus/minus rating of plus-6.

As Washington eagerly awaits Bear's full recovery and return to health, they anticipate that his inclusion in the team will significantly enhance their defensive strength​. Photo Credit:  James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports