Prize Free Agent Reveals Why He Rejected Offers From Toronto And Washington
Photo credit: The Hockey News
Over the Christmas break, it was officially announced that the free-agent defenseman Ethan Bear has inked a two-year contract with the Washington Capitals, valued at $2.0625 million AAV, as reported by Puck Media.
Ethan Bear Officially Signs With The Capitals And Reveals Why He Rejected Offers From The Leafs And Canucks
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.
Must read on PuckReporter
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:
«I've heard such good things about the [Capitals] organization, they have great leadership here,» Bear said last week. «It honestly felt like they cared a lot. They want me here, instead of needing me.»
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:
«Patrik Allvin had regular communication with the agent. We thought we were the frontrunners. It's a little disappointing because we put a lot of work in, and we really thought that he was coming back to the Canucks, but he has the right to choose, and I take it he chose another place where he feels that it's best for him.»
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?
Previously on PuckReporter
| 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 |
Latest 10 stories
