LATEST | Insider links Ethan Bear to another contender

PUBLICATION

Cooper Godin
December 7, 2023 (9:59)

SHARE THIS STORY

Former Vancouver Canucks defenceman Ethan Bear is gearing up towards a return to game action at some point later this month or in early January.

Bear became an unrestricted free agent in late June after the Canucks decided not to issue him his qualifying offer. He's yet to sign with any team so far after suffering a shoulder injury at the 2023 IIHF World Hockey Championship which required surgery.

During his most recent 32 Thoughts article, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman confirmed that the Canucks are still interested, but they're fairly tight to the cap and it may not work out.

Friedman also mentioned that the Toronto Maple Leafs are a team that could be a possible fit for Ethan Bear.

"1. Another possibility for Toronto (and everyone else) is Ethan Bear. There is word tonight that interested teams will now be allowed to watch him skate. He's based in Kelowna, B.C., and a few are going to take him up on the offer. Vancouver would like to keep him � he's interested in a return � but the Canucks are cap-tight and there are others who can try to outbid."

Bear, 26, appeared in 61 games for the Canucks last season, putting up 16 points (three goals, 13 assists), 25 penalty minutes and was a plus-six.

Which team do you think would be a better fit for Ethan Bear? Let us know what you think in the poll below!