The Vancouver Canucks will be without defenseman Ethan Bear for the beginning portions of the 2023-24 season. The soon-to-be 26-year-old underwent shoulder surgery and will be sidelined for the next six months. If his recovery stays on schedule, he will be back around mid-December.

Following his move from the Carolina Hurricanes, Bear played very well for the Canucks and should be in the running for a spot in Vancouver's top four next season when healthy. In 61 games, he posted three goals, 16 points, and a plus-6 rating.

Bear is due for a new contract this summer, as he is a restricted free agent.

With Bear set to miss time, one has to wonder if the Canucks will browse the free-agent market for right-shot depth defensemen. It certainly should be considered, as they are entering next season with only Filip Hronek and Tyler Myers under contract. Myers, of course, has also been the subject of trade rumors.

It is rough to hear that the Canucks will be without Bear for the start of the 2023-24 campaign. Here's to hoping that he has a speedy recovery and continues to make an impact once he gets back into game action.

Join the Discussion: » 55 Comments » Post New Comment

» Nikita Zadorov is a Canuck!

» Canucks Trade Beauvillier to Blackhawks, Free Up Cap Space

» Canucks Looking to End Losing Streak vs. Sharks

» Canucks Notes: Pettersson, Soucy, Myers & Studnicka

» Canucks Looking to Bounce Back vs. Habs