Stunned and Grateful: Carter Bear Left Speechless After Red Wings Snag Him with No. 13 Pick in 2025 NHL Draft…Read More…
In a moment that will be etched into Carter Bear’s memory forever, the 18-year-old defenseman was left speechless when the Detroit Red Wings called his name as the No. 13 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft on Friday night in Las Vegas.
The crowd inside the glitzy Sphere at The Venetian erupted in applause as Bear stood up from his table, hugged his family, and made the slow walk to the stage with disbelief still written all over his face. As he pulled on the iconic red and white jersey and donned the winged wheel cap, it was clear that this was more than just a draft moment — it was a dream realized.
A Dream Fulfilled in Stunning Fashion
“I… I honestly don’t have the words,” Bear managed to say during his post-selection media availability, still visibly stunned. “To hear my name, to hear it from the Red Wings — it’s something I’ve imagined since I first put on skates as a kid. But nothing prepares you for the real thing.”
The moment wasn’t just magical for Bear and his family — it also signaled another bold and strategic move by Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman, who is known for his keen eye for defensive talent and long-term team building.
“We’re thrilled to add Carter to the Red Wings organization,” Yzerman said. “He’s a player with strong instincts, size, skill, and maturity beyond his years. We believe he has the potential to become a cornerstone defenseman in the future.”
Bear’s Rise Through the Ranks
Hailing from Cranbrook, British Columbia, Bear has had a meteoric rise in the hockey world over the past two years. After a strong showing with the WHL’s Vancouver Giants in the 2024-25 season, where he tallied 11 goals and 36 assists in 68 games, scouts took serious notice. His blend of physicality, poise under pressure, and offensive upside made him one of the top-rated blueliners in the draft.
“He’s a kid who can change a game from the back end,” said NHL Network analyst Kevin Weekes. “His transition game is elite, he sees the ice well, and he doesn’t panic when under pressure. He’s exactly what modern teams want in a defenseman.”
In addition to his WHL dominance, Bear shined at the IIHF U18 World Championship for Team Canada, logging heavy minutes and contributing at both ends of the ice. His leadership and versatility were also on full display, further boosting his draft stock.
Red Wings’ Long-Term Vision
For the Detroit Red Wings, Bear represents more than just a promising talent. He’s part of a broader youth movement that Yzerman has spearheaded since taking over the reins in 2019. With an eye toward sustainable success, Detroit has accumulated young talent year after year — and Bear fits perfectly into the mold.
Pairing him in the future with rising stars like Simon Edvinsson and Moritz Seider could give Detroit one of the NHL’s most formidable young defensive cores.
“We’re building something here, and Carter is a great piece to that puzzle,” Yzerman said. “It takes time, but we’re committed to doing this the right way.”
Detroit’s fanbase, known for its loyalty and high expectations, responded with enthusiasm across social media platforms following Bear’s selection.
“This kid’s got fire — just what the Wings need!” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Yzerman strikes again!”
From Backyard Rinks to NHL Stage
For Bear, the road to the NHL wasn’t always paved in gold. He began skating on frozen ponds in his hometown, guided by his father, Jason Bear, a former semi-pro player. From early mornings before school to late-night practices, Bear’s family has been his foundation every step of the way.
“None of this would be possible without my mom and dad,” Bear said, fighting back emotion. “They believed in me when no one else did. This night is for them too.”
His mother, Melanie, echoed the sentiment from the stands.
“Carter’s always had a quiet drive — he’s never been the loudest, but he lets his actions speak,” she said. “Seeing him up there tonight, it’s overwhelming. We’re so proud.”
What Comes Next
With development camp around the corner, Bear is focused on making a strong impression with the Red Wings’ coaching staff. While he’s expected to return to the WHL for another season, there’s little doubt within the organization that Bear could be pushing for an NHL roster spot sooner rather than later.
“I want to keep improving every day,” Bear said. “I know I’m not there yet, but I’ll give it everything I’ve got to be the best player I can be.”
As the draft night came to a close and Bear walked the carpet with his family for photos, he took a deep breath, smiled, and looked around as if trying to soak it all in.
“I’m still speechless,” he admitted again with a laugh. “But this — this feels like the start of something really special.”
Quick Facts: Carter Bear
- Position: Defense
- Height: 6’2”
- Weight: 195 lbs
- Shoots: Left
- 2024-25 Team: Vancouver Giants (WHL)
- 2024-25 Stats: 68 GP, 11 G, 36 A, 47 PTS
- International: Represented Canada at 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship
Detroit has found its next building block — and in Carter Bear, they may have landed a quiet leader with the potential to anchor their blue line for years to come.
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