There’s never an ideal moment for an athlete to sustain an injury, but getting hurt during one’s draft-eligible season might just be the worst possible timing. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened to Carter Bear, a talented 18-year-old hockey player known for his versatility in playing both center and left wing. Just as the WHL playoffs were approaching—a time when many young players are hoping to showcase their talents to scouts—Bear suffered a partial laceration to his Achilles tendon, sidelining him during a critical phase of his career.
Despite the untimely setback, Bear’s performance throughout the season has already turned heads. Before the injury took him out of action, he had appeared in 56 games and was putting together a standout campaign. His impressive statistics included 82 points, with 40 of those being goals. He also boasted a plus-33 rating and had accumulated 77 penalty minutes, a reflection of both his offensive skill and his willingness to play a physical, aggressive game. His style of play has not gone unnoticed; in fact, the Montreal Canadiens have already shown interest, going so far as to take Bear out to dinner earlier this year—an informal yet telling sign of serious scouting consideration.
Bear’s overall game is what makes him such a compelling prospect. Though not the biggest player on the ice—standing at six feet tall and weighing in at 179 pounds—he compensates with fierce competitiveness and a passion for the sport. He thrives in puck battles, not merely through physicality, but through smart play. His high hockey IQ enables him to pick the right moments to engage and to anticipate the flow of the game effectively. This sharp decision-making ability makes him a threat at both ends of the ice, and he’s become known for his two-way play.
He’s also developed a reputation for being a player who isn’t afraid to put his body on the line for the good of the team. Whether it’s blocking shots, grinding in the corners, or backchecking with determination, Bear has demonstrated a willingness to do the hard work. His coaches and teammates have come to admire his dedication and tenacity.
In a recent interview with RG.org, Bear was asked how he would describe his style of play metaphorically. He likened himself to a wolf, saying he’s “always on the hunt.” This description is fitting for a player who is constantly involved in the action, tracking the puck, and looking for opportunities to make a difference. It’s also a clever response, especially if the Canadiens—or any other team—continue to ask prospects their now-famous (and sometimes polarizing) question about what animal they identify with. For Bear, the answer is already rehearsed and true to form.
While his recent Achilles injury could impact his stock in the upcoming NHL Entry Draft, Bear still remains highly ranked. According to the NHL Central Scouting’s Final Rankings, he sits 10th among North American skaters—a testament to the respect he commands despite the injury concerns. Among other rankings, there is a bit of variation, but he consistently lands within the first-round territory. TSN’s Craig Button places him at 24 in his mock draft, while Bob McKenzie has him higher at 15. The Hockey News’ Tony Ferrari is particularly optimistic, ranking Bear as high as seventh. Meanwhile, Ryan Kennedy slots him at 17, suggesting that while opinions vary, there’s broad consensus that Bear has first-round talent.
Bear’s story is both inspiring and a bit of a cautionary tale about how quickly circumstances can shift for young athletes. Injuries can introduce doubt and unpredictability during a time that’s already full of pressure and scrutiny. However, Bear has enough evidence on his résumé to suggest he’ll overcome this challenge. His offensive production, combined with his gritty playstyle and strong hockey sense, make him a valuable asset for any organization willing to look past a temporary setback.
Teams evaluating Bear will likely consider both his physical recovery and his mental resilience. Recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, even a partial tear, can be a lengthy and demanding process. Yet, Bear has shown that he has the kind of mindset that teams love to see: driven, focused, and relentless. His comparison to a wolf isn’t just a metaphor—it’s an insight into his mentality as a player. He’s not one to fade into the background or give up in the face of adversity.
The Canadiens, having already expressed some interest, may be among the teams seriously considering Bear when their pick comes around. With Montreal’s focus on building a more competitive and skilled roster through the draft, selecting a player like Bear—who brings both skill and character—could be a wise investment. Of course, much will depend on how the draft board unfolds and how teams view Bear’s injury in the context of his long-term potential.
In the unpredictable world of the NHL draft, players rise and fall for many reasons—some in their control, and others not. Carter Bear’s unfortunate injury might introduce some uncertainty, but for those who’ve followed his development closely, the belief remains that his ceiling is high and his playing style adaptable to the pro level. He has already proven that he can be a force in junior hockey, and with proper recovery and development, there’s every reason to believe he can do the same in the NHL.
Bear’s journey to draft day will be closely watched. Whether he goes in the top 10, mid-first round, or slightly lower, what’s certain is that he’s a player worth watching in the years to come. His grit, intelligence, and instinctive play are attributes that teams look for, and if he can bounce back strong from his injury, Carter Bear might just prove to be one of the 2025 draft’s biggest steals.
