A new report from TSN insider Chris Johnston has brought forward an intriguing possibility for the Vancouver Canucks as they approach the NHL Trade Deadline. According to Johnston, the
team may be considering the return of a familiar face to help bolster their defensive depth.
Throughout the past few weeks, the Canucks have been at the center of numerous trade discussions, especially after moving J.T. Miller earlier in the season. With so much speculation surrounding Vancouver’s potential trade moves, one of the team’s most pressing needs remains on defense.
The recent acquisition of Marcus Pettersson has certainly helped solidify the Canucks’ top-four defensive core, making the need for a high-end defenseman slightly less urgent. However, there is still a significant gap in terms of defensive depth, which could become a key focus for the team leading up to the deadline.
Given this need, Chris Johnston has suggested that the Canucks may consider bringing back a former player who is currently part of the Washington Capitals organization.
Former Canuck Could Make His Return at the Deadline
Johnston’s report highlights that the Capitals are seemingly open to moving Ethan Bear, potentially giving him another opportunity to establish himself in the NHL. So far this season, Bear has spent the majority of his time playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Hershey Bears.
Despite being in the AHL, Bear has had an impressive season with Hershey, contributing to their strong campaign as one of the top teams in the league. Johnston emphasized that the Capitals appear willing to explore trade options for Bear in order to provide him with an NHL opportunity.
“Well, Ethan Bear has had a really strong year down with the Hershey Bears, who are again a top team in the American Hockey League,” Johnston noted. “At this point in time, it does sound as though they’re willing to explore a trade for Bear.”
One key detail in any potential trade for Bear is that he would likely need assurances of a spot on an NHL roster. Given that he is in the final year of his current contract, Bear would undoubtedly welcome the chance to secure a role in the NHL, with the hopes of earning a new deal moving forward. The Capitals seem inclined to facilitate a move that would allow him to finish the season in a situation where he can prove himself at the highest level.
For the Canucks, their familiarity with Bear makes him a particularly interesting option. If acquired, he could step in as a depth defenseman, either playing on the team’s bottom pairing or serving as an extra blueliner capable of filling in due to injuries, strategic lineup changes, or specific matchups.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, Vancouver will need to finalize its trade priorities in the coming weeks. Ethan Bear appears to be a logical target as the team looks to strengthen its defensive depth for the stretch run of the season.
