Vancouver Canucks extend Derek Forbort for another year, valuing his defensive grit and veteran leadership.
The Vancouver Canucks have locked in a key piece of their defensive core, announcing that veteran defenceman Derek Forbort has agreed to a one-year contract worth $2 million for the upcoming NHL season.
Leadership, Experience, and Penalty Kill Strength
Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin emphasized the importance of Forbort’s return, highlighting his impact both on and off the ice.
“Bringing Derek back for another season is an important move for our group,” said Allvin. “His strong defensive play and solid work on the penalty kill really helped solidify our back end this past year. Derek has a strong voice in the room and some impressive leadership qualities, and we will look to him to help our team continue to grow and improve this coming season.”
2023-24 Season Recap and Career Highlights
At 33 years old, Forbort appeared in 54 games for Vancouver last season, posting 11 points (2 goals, 9 assists), 45 penalty minutes, and averaging 17:06 of ice time per game.
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 216 pounds, the Duluth, Minnesota native brings a physical edge and veteran presence. Over the span of 550 career regular season games with the Kings, Flames, Jets, Bruins, and Canucks, Forbort has totaled 106 points (19 goals, 87 assists), 344 penalty minutes, and a +23 plus/minus rating.
In 35 career playoff games, he has registered five points (3-2-5) and 33 penalty minutes.
A Proven International Competitor
Forbort’s resume also includes notable international appearances. He represented Team USA at the 2010 U18 World Championship, winning gold, and earned bronze at the 2011 World Junior Championship. He returned to compete again in 2012.
Originally drafted 15th overall in the first round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings, Forbort has carved out a reliable and respected NHL career built on defensive reliability and leadership.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for all the latest updates from the ice, from player signings to season previews.
For every big play and breaking trade — we’ve got you covered.
