Bobcats Tender Defenseman Nick Baer
BISMARCK, N.D.–Prior knowledge of the city of Bismarck is not a requirement to join the Bismarck Bobcats, but the team’s latest tender knows the capital well.
The Bobcats are excited to announce the tender signing of defenseman Nick Baer for the 2022-23 season. Baer, a native of Minnetonka, Minn. and Minnetonka high school senior captain, has been to Bismarck many times. His father’s work takes him to the area, and he used to own a home here.
“Of course, the house was a big part of (the decision to tender),” Baer said. “But Bismarck seems like the best spot in all of the NAHL, so I love it.”
Baer comes to Bismarck with junior hockey experience. The 6’0″ defenseman skated with the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers and suited up for a game last year.
“As Niko (Kapetanovic, Bobcats head scout) says, simple game,” Baer said about playing juniors. “You do not try to make too big of a play.”
That mindset suits Baer well as a self-described defensive defenseman who would rather make a big hit instead of score a goal.
“Most of my game is in the defensive zone,” he said. “Getting pucks north. I really like to get a stick in and block a few shots.”
That said, Baer’s offensive attributes are not lacking. He recorded 8 goals and 16 points in 26 high school games this season at Minnetonka.
As a tender signing, if Baer elects to take his talents to the North American Hockey League next season, he would join the Bismarck Bobcats. The Bobcats look forward to welcoming him to Bismarck later this year.