A number of gamers had been positioned on waivers by their NHL groups on Friday, with Ethan Bear of the Washington Capitals being probably the most notable. Bear, who has confronted challenges in current seasons attributable to private points and inconsistent performances, was as soon as thought to be a vital element of the Edmonton Oilers’ protection.
Intriguingly, the Oilers are additionally dealing with a problem of their very own with their blue line this season. Edmonton is struggling to seek out depth on their proper facet — not less than depth that may play a No. 4 function if required. They’ve Ty Emberson, Josh Brown, Troy Stecher, and maybe Travis Dermott (if he indicators a contract.) None of these gamers are essentially top-four guys,
However, is Ethan Bear the kind of man who might remedy the Oilers’ issues?
Bear May Not Be What the Oilers Want
Bear entered this 12 months’s camp with the Capitals seeking to earn a spot on a crowded blue line. The Caps added Jakob Chychrun, and Matt Roy, over the offseason. Bear was combating with Alex Alexeyev and Dylan McIlrath for one of many further spots. He was in robust to make a roster that wanted to clear wage cap area.
Bear additionally returned to the staff after spending time away from the staff final spring to obtain therapy from the NHL/NHLPA Participant Help Program. Truthful or not, that possible didn’t assist his trigger.
Bear doesn’t essentially come low cost. He’s a $2 million cap hit for yet another season and he’s not essentially a daily with excessive expectations, apart from to get a chance.
The Oilers may not be the perfect staff to offer to him. First, he left below less-than-ideal circumstances. Second, the Oilers want a real No. 4, and whereas Bear was as soon as thought-about a participant who might sooner or later be that, he’s not anymore. Third, the cap hit is simply too troublesome for Edmonton.
It is a good concept contemplating a reunion might be a feel-good second for the staff and the followers. That stated, for what the Oilers want and with their monetary restrictions, this simply isn’t the perfect match.
Subsequent: Did Olivier Rodrigue Fear the Oilers About Their Goaltending?
