The right-shot blue liner secures his future in New York after a productive 27-point campaign, providing the Islanders' defensive corps with proven depth and veteran puck-moving reliability.
The New York Islanders announced on Monday that they have signed right-shot defenseman Ethan Bear to a one-year, two-way deal.
Bear, who was on an expiring one-year, two-way deal worth $775,000 at the NHL level, recorded 27 points (four goals, 23 assists) in 40 games with no points in two playoff games.
He missed significant time with what appeared to be a wrist injury after blocking a shot in preaseason.
The 28-year-old didn't make the Islanders' lineup in 2025-26 but has 275 NHL games of experience and will continue to be a leader for the younger prospects as they embark on their first season in Hamilton.
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