The National Hockey League's roster freeze is wrapping up, set to conclude at 12:01 a.m. ET on December 28th, and as the freeze thaws, there's buzz about potential transactions. While many might be minor, like call-ups or AHL assignments, one significant move is on the horizon for the Washington Capitals.
Bear, at 26, spent the 2022-23 season with the Vancouver Canucks, contributing in 61 games with 16 points (three goals, 13 assists), 25 penalty minutes, and a plus-six rating.
Post Vancouver's season, Bear joined Canada's roster for the 2023 IIHF World Hockey Championship. Unfortunately, he faced a setback in the quarter-finals, suffering a shoulder injury requiring surgery. With uncertainties around his return, the Canucks opted not to issue a qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent on July 1st.