The Winnipeg Free Press’s Mike McIntyre reports that Carter Bear’s community in Manitoba’s Peguis First Nation had a “watch party” of the NHL Draft, and McIntyre spoke with both Carter and his community’s chief regarding Bear’s status as the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Detroit Red Wings:
“That shows how proud they are. I’m proud of where I’m from — my community and my Indigenous background,” he told the Free Press via Zoom shortly after having his name called.
It takes a village, as the saying goes, and Bear was feeling especially thankful to everyone in his world who helped him get to this stage. He’s the first Manitoba hockey player to be drafted in the opening round since Strathclair’s Conor Geekie went 11th-overall to the Arizona Coyotes in 2022.
“My Mom and Dad, they’ve done so much for me,” said Bear, who was overcome with emotion at times. “I’m out of words. This is just unreal.”
The party was in full swing at the Peguis Multiplex, where community members gathered to watch one of their own under the bright lights in Hollywood.
“Everyone here knew about this evening and are super excited for him and proud of his accomplishment,” said Chief Stan Bird.
“Considering everything our community has gone through, and what we’re still continuing to experience in terms of addictions and other negative things, I think this is a really positive event for our community. He’s someone our young people look up to. It shows what hard work brings. It sets a really good example for our young people.”
