The New York Islanders have officially added experienced blueliner Ethan Bear to their roster, signing him to a one-year, two-way contract worth an average annual value (AAV) of $775,000. The signing signals a promising new chapter in Bear’s career as he eyes a return to consistent NHL action after a standout season in the AHL and a period of personal recovery.
AHL resurgence fuels NHL return
Ethan Bear, 28, spent the 2024-25 season with the Hershey Bears, the AHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals. It was his most productive professional campaign to date, tallying 10 goals and 46 points across 62 games, earning him a well-deserved selection to the AHL All-Star Game for the first time in his career.
His return to form in Hershey showcased not just his scoring touch but also his leadership and defensive reliability — attributes the Islanders hope to tap into during the upcoming season.
Ethan Bear's past NHL experience and recovery journey
Bear’s last NHL appearance came during the 2023-24 season with the Washington Capitals, where he recorded one goal and three assists while averaging just under 15 minutes of ice time per game. However, his season was cut short in March 2024 when he entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Now reportedly healthy and focused, Bear is looking to reestablish himself at the NHL level — and the New York Islanders seem willing to give him that platform.
A journey marked by highs and setbacks
Originally drafted 124th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2015, Ethan Bear has logged 275 NHL games across stints with Edmonton, Carolina, Vancouver, and Washington, scoring 17 goals and 67 points.
His breakout year came in 2019-20 with the Oilers, where he posted 21 points in 71 games and was praised for his calm puck-handling and defensive poise. Unfortunately, inconsistency and injuries in later seasons disrupted his momentum. A significant injury sustained at the 2023 IIHF World Championship also delayed his start to the 2023-24 season.
Before turning pro, Bear had an illustrious junior career with the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds, earning the Bill Hunter Trophy as the league’s top defenseman in 2016-17 and leading the playoffs in assists as the Thunderbirds captured the WHL title.
Islanders bolster depth with smart move
The New York Islanders’ decision to sign Ethan Bear comes as part of a broader effort to strengthen their defensive depth, especially following the earlier acquisition of goaltender David Rittich on the same day. Given Bear’s AHL resurgence and NHL experience, he could prove to be a savvy addition who offers flexibility and upside.