The newest Regina Pats' forward, Connor Bear has set his career goals high.
"If I get the chance, hopefully, get drafted in the NHL," Bear told SportsCage host Barney Shynkaruk. "But really, slowly make my way up to the NHL or whatever leagues are above this."
Bear's goals seem attainable because he has a cousin in the NHL, Ethan Bear, who is a defenceman currently playing for the Washington Capitals. Initially, Bear's cousin was his idol, but when he got older, his idol changed.
"For a little bit, it was my cousin Ethan Bear. Since I skated with him, I've always looked up to him," Bear said. "As I get older now, I'd say more Brad Marchand or Matthew Tkachuk."
The Pats made a trade with the Calgary Hitmen, sending over a fourth-round pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft and a third-rounder in 2026. In return, Regina got the 17-year-old Bear and 19-year-old defenceman Aleksey Chichkin.
Pats' general manager Allan Millar has high hopes for Regina's newest players.
"In this deal, it was important to add to our defence core, while adding another good, young player to our group. We look forward to Aleksey and Connor's future with the Pats," Millar said in a statement.
Bear credits his work ethic and did not pay attention when selected in the sixth round during the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft by the Hitmen.
"I didn't really focus on where I was picked in the draft, I kept working on myself, and it really paid off," Bear said. "Luckily enough, I made it to the dub whether I was first round or 12th round, it didn't really matter to me."
Bear is from Ochapowace, First Nation, and excited to be near his home and his family.
"So happy to be closer to home and have so much support from all my family," Bear said. "My mom is really trying to get everybody to come out and watch me."
The Regina Pats next game is at home against the Edmonton Oil Kings Friday, October 5. Make sure to catch the pre-game show at 5:30 and puck drop at 6 p.m. Catch all the action on 620 CKRM2.
