GRAND FORKS — Defenseman Derek Forbort will remain with the Vancouver Canucks for another season after agreeing to a one-year contract worth \$2 million.
The former University of North Dakota (UND) standout just wrapped up his debut season with Vancouver, where he contributed two goals and 11 points over 54 games, averaging 17 minutes and six seconds of ice time per game.
Primarily utilized in defensive roles, Forbort was a key part of Vancouver’s penalty-killing unit.
“Retaining Derek for another season is a crucial step for our team,” said Canucks GM Patrik Allvin. “His dependable defensive presence and effectiveness on the penalty kill were vital for us last year. Derek also brings leadership and a strong locker room presence, which will be valuable as we continue to develop as a team.”
A Duluth, Minnesota native, Forbort played at UND from 2010 to 2013, appearing in 115 games and registering six goals and 45 points.
Now a 10-year NHL veteran, Forbort has played in 550 regular-season games with the Los Angeles Kings, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, Boston Bruins, and Vancouver Canucks. He was set to hit free agency on July 1.
He was originally drafted 15th overall by the Kings in the 2010 NHL Draft.
