December 2025 Practice Schedule & News Updates

The Hershey Bears are entering a critical stretch of the season as they navigate a busy December schedule, and the team’s practice plan for the week of December 15th has been released. This comes at a pivotal moment – the Bears are currently battling for top positioning in the AHL’s Eastern Conference, with a tight race developing for playoff seeding. Maintaining peak performance through consistent practice, while also managing player fatigue, will be key to their success.

The Hershey Bears, the AHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals, have consistently been a top developmental pipeline for NHL talent. This week’s practice schedule is particularly noteworthy given the recent call-ups to Washington and the potential for further roster adjustments as the NHL season progresses. The Bears’ coaching staff, led by Head Coach Todd Nelson, will be focused on maintaining team cohesion and developing players who can seamlessly transition to the Capitals organization when needed. The use of both Hersheypark Arena and the GIANT Center allows for logistical flexibility, potentially accommodating different practice drills or player groupings. The scheduled company event on Thursday, leading to the cancellation of public practice, is a common occurrence for teams affiliated with larger entertainment entities like Hersheypark, demonstrating the integration of the team within the broader Hershey Parks & Resorts experience.

The Forward Look: The next week will be crucial for the Bears. Beyond the practices themselves, watch for how the team manages potential call-ups to the Capitals, especially with the NHL trade deadline approaching in March. Any significant player movement could disrupt the Bears’ chemistry, requiring Nelson and his staff to quickly integrate new faces. Furthermore, the team’s performance in upcoming games – following this practice week – will likely dictate whether they maintain their current trajectory or face increased pressure to secure a top playoff spot. Expect increased scrutiny of player development, particularly for prospects vying for a potential NHL opportunity in the coming months. The Bears’ ability to navigate these challenges will be a key indicator of their long-term success, both in the AHL and as a vital component of the Capitals’ organization.