About
Ethan Bear is a proud member of the Ochapowace Nation in Southern Saskatchewan. In his early years, Ethan developed a love for sport including hockey, fastball, and track and field.
In 2012, Ethan travelled to Kelowna and where he was selected for the Bantam Draft 2nd round 25th overall to the Seattle Thunderbirds. Returning back to Ochapowace in 2013, Ethan faced numerous challenges staying on top of his game: physical isolation, the availability of drugs and alcohol, and a lack of support and resources would be enough to deter many people. For Ethan, he accepted the challenge and focused on achieving his goals.
His early hockey journey highlights include him being drafted 5th round 124th overall by the Edmonton Oilers while he was still in high school, to making the WHL 1st all-star team at 18 years old.
Ethan began racking up awards and notoriety, including receiving the 2016/2017 title of WHL defenseman of the year.
In 2018, Ethan achieved his childhood dream of becoming a NHL player with the Edmonton Oilers. On March 26th, 2018, he scored his first NHL goal.
The 2020/2021 season held huge milestones for Ethan as he cracked the Edmonton Oilers opening lineup and solidified a top 4 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 during an NHL exhibition game with the Oilers. By wearing his last name, he demonstrated pride in his culture with the hope of influencing other Indigenous athletes to wear their last names in 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 about his life as an Indigenous man in hockey. Through his platform and his voice, he is spreading the message to Indigenous youth that they matter and they can stand up against racism.
Ethan’s story has created waves of support and awareness across social media and has increased the visibility of issues Indigenous youth face 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 Ned. They have welcomed their daughter, Gracie Bear, to their family. Gracie is a part of the generation Ethan wants to support in achieving their dreams and goals. Youth represents innovation and creativeness– a “we can do anything” mentality. They are the future of our people and Ethan’s goal is to support their journey as he had many do the same for him. Gracie represents his devotion to helping provide assistance and support for the next generation’s future success.
For the 2023/2024 season the Washington Capitals signed Ethan to a two year contract after he sustained a injury at the 2023 World championship.
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