With the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the Detroit Red Wings selected forward Carter Bear from the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League (WHL). The draft took place at L.A. Live's Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Bear, born on November 4, 2006, is a Canadian junior ice hockey player. Standing at 6-foot and weighing 179 pounds, the Winnipeg, Manitoba native is known for his versatility, being able to play both center and left wing.
In the 2024-25 season with the Silvertips, Bear showcased his offensive talent, leading the team with 40 goals and 82 points in just 56 games. He also ranked among the team leaders in other categories, including assists (42, 4th), plus-minus (+33, 7th), penalty minutes (77, 2nd), power-play goals (14, 1st), and game-winning goals (9, 1st). His outstanding performance earned him a spot on the WHL's Western Conference Second All-Star Team.
Unfortunately, Bear's season was cut short due to a lacerated Achilles tendon suffered in a game against the Portland Winterhawks on March 9, 2025. Despite the injury, his impressive statistics and overall play throughout the season solidified his status as a top prospect.
Prior to his stellar 2024-25 season, Bear also had a strong 2023-24 campaign with the Silvertips, recording 25 goals and 32 assists for 57 points in 67 regular-season games. He added four assists in nine playoff games. Since joining the Silvertips in the 2022-23 season, Bear has accumulated 66 goals and 75 assists for 141 points in 142 WHL games.
Before joining the WHL, Bear played for the Winnipeg Thrashers in the Manitoba U18 Hockey League. In the 2022-23 season, he was named the league's Most Valuable Player and earned a spot on the First All-Star Team after recording 32 goals and 59 points in 31 regular-season games.
According to Elite Prospects, Bear is known as a physical forward and playmaker. Red Wings' fans can anticipate Bear contributing with his relentless compete level, net-front presence, and scoring ability. Scouts describe him as a tenacious two-way player with excellent hockey IQ. While he may require a couple of years of development before making the jump to the NHL, Bear's skill set and work ethic make him a promising prospect for the Red Wings.
The Detroit Red Wings currently have eight more selections in the remaining rounds of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.