About
Ethan Bear is a proud member of the Ochapowace Nation in Southern Saskatchewan. In his early years, Ethan developed a love for sports, including hockey, fastball, and track and field.
In 2012, Ethan attended the Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy in the CSSHL, located in Kelowna, and was selected in the 2nd round, 25th overall, by the Seattle Thunderbirds in the Bantam Draft. Returning to Ochapowace in 2013, Ethan faced numerous challenges in staying on top of his game: the lack of training facilities, training resources, and distractions from peers were enough to deter many people. Ethan accepted the challenge and focused on achieving his goals.
His early hockey journey highlights include being drafted in the 5th round, 124th overall, by the Edmonton Oilers immediately after graduation, and making the WHL First All-Star team at 18 years old.
Ethan’s hard work earned him recognition with many awards and honors, including being named the 2016/2017 WHL defenseman of the year.
In 2018, Ethan achieved his childhood dream of becoming an NHL player with the Edmonton Oilers. On March 26th, 2018, he scored his first NHL goal.
The 2020/2021 season marked huge milestones for Ethan, as he cracked the Edmonton Oilers’ opening lineup and solidified a top-four role with the team at 22 years old. The season ended at 72 games due to COVID. Ethan was the first player to wear his last name in Cree syllabics during an NHL exhibition game with the Oilers. By wearing his name in Cree, he demonstrated pride in his culture, with the hope of inspiring other Indigenous athletes to do the same, using their language.
In January 2021, Ethan signed a two-year extension with the Edmonton Oilers for $4 million.
In May 2021, Ethan was the target of many hateful, racist messages on social media after the final game against the Winnipeg Jets. He chose to respond by raising awareness about racism in sport through a video sharing his life as an Indigenous person in hockey. Through his platform and his voice, he is spreading the message to Indigenous youth that they matter and that they can stand up against racism.
Ethan’s story has generated waves of support and awareness across social media, increasing the visibility of issues faced by Indigenous youth in sport and at school. He continues his work through speaking engagements and his foundation.
Ethan has recently become a father with his wife, Lenasia Bear. They have welcomed their children into their family. These children are a part of the generation Ethan wants to support in achieving their dreams and goals. Youth represent innovation and creativity– a “we can do anything” mentality. They are the future of our people, and Ethan’s goal is to support their journey as he has many who have done the same for him. Gracie & Bella represent his devotion to doing what he can to help the next generation’s future success.
For the 2023/2024 season, the Washington Capitals signed Ethan to a two-year contract after he sustained an injury at the 2023 World Championship.
During this injury recovery, Ethan recognized and reached out to the NHLPA to start his healing journey with mental health and depression. He would come back to Washington and head out to join the AHL affiliate team, Hershey Bears, where he refreshed his love for the game, ending the 24/25 season as the top scorer, named to the all-star team, and being awarded the team MVP. The contract with the Washington Capitals concluded in May 2025. Ethan chose not to re-sign and looks forward to seeing what the future holds.
Book Ethan Bear
