Carter Bear, a 19‑year‑old left winger selected 13th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, is poised to make the leap from the Western Hockey League to the American Hockey League. After a breakout season with the Everett Silvertips, where he posted 36 goals and 77 points in 53 games, the young forward is now set to begin his first professional campaign with the Grand Rapids Griffins.
A Promising Transition
Known for a deceptive shot and stealthy offensive instincts that echo the style of Hall‑of‑Famer Brett Hull, Bear combines scoring flair with a relentless work ethic. Despite standing 6‑0 and 186 pounds, he battles for every loose puck, using competitiveness to compensate for a modest physical frame.
Development Path and Challenges
A lingering Achilles injury early in the season slowed his progress, but by the winter he had regained full health, finishing the campaign with seven goals and 22 points in 18 playoff games, helping Everett capture the WHL championship before falling to the Kitchener Rangers in the Memorial Cup final.
Looking Ahead
Red Wings development director Dan Cleary has praised Bear’s mindset, noting that the organization plans to groom him as an elite AHL scorer over the next two years. While a Detroit debut within that window is anticipated, the team emphasizes a careful approach to his physical development and skating refinement before NHL readiness.