Despite the possibility of using their Round 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft as part of a trade package to acquire an impact player, the Detroit Red Wings ultimately chose instead to utilize the pick on Carter Bear.
Bear, a forward with the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League, was chosen with the 13th selection. Weeks later, he was officially signed to an entry-level contract.
Bear is already looking forward to eventually donning the Winged Wheel in Detroit, calling his new deal a "big moment".
“It’s obviously a big moment for me and the start of my career with the Red Wings, but it’s also just a start,” Bear said via the Red Wings official website. “Just like how the NHL Draft was a start, this is another step to get to. This is a big moment for me and my family and I’m excited, for sure.”
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Bear, who participated with many of his future teammates at Detroit's Development Camp earlier this month, has been acting as a sponge in trying to soak up as much knowledge as he can.
“Throughout this whole process, I’ve just been learning from everyone: the staff, management, the ex-pro guys who played for this team,” Bear said. “I’m asking questions, so I think it’s really all about learning new things at this time.”
An Achilles injury halted what was an extremely productive campaign for Bear with the Silvertips in 2024-25, as he scored 40 goals with 42 assists in the 56 games he skated in before suffering the ailment.
Not only is Detroit known for its status as the Motor City along with their rich sports history, the cuisine has also made a positive impression on Bear's experience - specifically, Detroit-style pizza.
“I’ve explored a lot of Downtown, but there’s more to explore for sure,” Bear said. “Detroit style pizza is pretty good, and the culture here is unbelievable. Such a close group already and close with the staff already. That’s just making it feel like home right away, so I appreciate them for that.”
Now that his Achilles injury healed, Bear is most likely to continue his development with the Silvertips next season.
With his entry-level contract, Bear will be able to continue playing at lower levels below the NHL without using up the first year of his deal. In order for a season to be counted toward his contract, Bear would need at least nine appearances with the Red Wings.
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