Cree born defensemen Ethan Bear opens up about depression and experience with NHL Players Assistance Program
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Photo credit: The Hockey News
Ethan Bear is a defenseman for the Washington Capitals, who recently entered the NHL/NHLPA player's assistance program.
The defenseman is one of many NHLers who has had a rough time finding a home and staying there, as he's moved around the league a lot. From starting in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers to the Carolina Hurricanes, Vancouver Canucks, and recently the Washington Capitals.
Bear has shown flashes of potential to fans and GMs in the NHL but never could tap into his full potential.
But with his exit from the Player's Assistance Program, will he turn over a new leaf?
"It's like I'm seeing life through a new set of lenses. My brain, my mind, has never been more clear," Bear told The Hockey News, adding, "Life for myself is just a lot better. I'm just really excited to play hockey, have a clear head and just have some fun, being around the guys. It feels good again."
Bear says he's feeling the best during his draft year, in 2015 and during his interview with Sammi Silber, was all smiles.
The Cree defenseman signed a two-year deal to stay in Washington, with a $2.06 Million cap hit attached.
Even though he has excitedly begun 2024-2025 on a good note, his offseason was marred with shoulder surgery.
"Last year was very hard for me mentally, physically... I've never been through something like that before," Bear admitted.
With hope the Washington Capitals, and their fans can see Ethan Bear become a key piece in the current and ongoing re-tool for the team.
Bear was known as an offensive weapon in junior hockey and has yet to light the league on fire with the prowess he has.
He would play only 24 games during the 2023-2024 season, scoring 4 points( 1 G, 3 A).
The 5'11" puck-moving defenseman still has to round out his game on both sides of the puck and hopefully, in Washington, he can grow as he should've in places like Edmonton, or Carolina.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 22 | 30 ANSWERS Cree born defensemen Ethan Bear opens up about depression and experience with NHL Players Assistance Program Do you think Ethan Bear will live up to his potential in 2024-2025? | ||
| Yes | 15 | 50 % |
| No | 15 | 50 % |
| List of polls | ||
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