On the latest edition of TSN's Insider Trading, Chris Johnston said the Washington Capitals are out front when it comes to pursuing Bear's services.
Bear has something all these teams could use. It will come down to who's willing to make the most attractive bid. Right now, it looks like the Caps.
Bear, 26, was a restricted free agent with the Vancouver Canucks. However, after finishing the regular season, Bear travelled to the World Championships in the spring where he suffered a shoulder injury. Vancouver announced later on that he would not be tendered a qualifying offer, making him free to sign anywhere when he became healthy. Teams have been given permission to watch him skate, meaning he's eyeing a comeback soon.
POLL | ||
7 DECEMBRE | 167 ANSWERS Several Teams in on UFA Ethan Bear, with Eastern Conference Team Leading the Charge Would you like your team to sign Bear when he's ready? | ||
Yes | 84 | 50.3 % |
No | 53 | 31.7 % |
Not sure | 30 | 18 % |
List of polls |