The Washington Capitals recalled defenseman Ethan Bear from the AHL's Hershey Bears in preparation for their first-round playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens. This decision came after the Capitals faced injury challenges, playing their last regular-season game with only five defensemen due to injuries to key players. Bear has demonstrated impressive performance in the AHL, leading the team in points and earning an All-Star recognition. His prior stint with the Capitals saw him contributing in limited games, but he is now expected to bolster the defense in the playoffs.
Bear's call-up comes after the Caps played their regular-season finale with just five defensemen, sitting Martin Fehervary, John Carlson, and Matt Roy.
Though he played exclusively for the Capitals in 2023-24, Bear was sent down during training camp last October and spent the entire 2024-25 regular season in the AHL.
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