Ethan Bear has been in a rehabilitation process following an injury sustained while representing Team Canada at the 2023 IIHF World Championship.
Bear made an appearance with the team during Wednesday's morning skate, marking his return to the ice after undergoing off-season shoulder surgery.
Notably, he hasn't seen action in an NHL game since April 13th of the previous season when he played for the Vancouver Canucks, tallying three goals and 16 points across 61 games.
When questioned about his decision to join the Capitals over his former team and the Toronto Maple Leafs, Bear responded with the following comment:
There were reports suggesting that the Canucks were actively working to bring Bear back, but the player made it clear that he wouldn't return to Vancouver. President Jim Rutherford expressed his disappointment during an interview on Donnie & Dhali, stating:
While reports linked Bear to the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have struggled defensively in recent seasons, the Capitals deal offered more security. It seems the defenseman may have targeted a comment at the two Canadian teams, suggesting that the Capitals offer provided a better fit for his needs.
Do you think the Capitals will make the playoffs?
POLL | ||
1 JANVIER | 258 ANSWERS Prize Free Agent Reveals Why He Rejected Offers From Toronto And Washington Do you think the Capitals will make the playoffs? | ||
Yes | 75 | 29.1 % |
No | 183 | 70.9 % |
List of polls |