Defenseman Ethan Bear has signed a two-year contract with the Washington Capitals, signifying his return to the NHL after undergoing shoulder surgery. The deal, announced by Capitals General Manager Brian MacLellan, will see Bear earn $4.125 million with a salary cap hit of $2.0625 million for the rest of the current season and the 2024-25 season.
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery expressed his belief that Bear could be a great fit for the organization, adding that the player is now fully fit. Bear was injured last spring while representing Canada at the world championships. This is Carbery’s fourth NFL franchise following Edmonton, Carolina, and Vancouver.
“Honestly felt like they really cared a lot and they want me here instead of needing me,” Bear stated after signing the deal. “I can kind of get my legs under me, get thinking quick again to learn the system, and kind of get to learn everyone’s tendencies instead of just kind of getting tossed into the fire, so I really appreciate that.”
